Teaching your teen to drive can be a nerve-wracking experience. You want them to be safe on the road, but it can be hard to know where to start. To help you out, a car accident lawyer from our friends at David & Philpot, P.L. has compiled some tips to teach your teen who is just learning to drive. From the importance of defensive driving to the rules of the road, these tips will give your teen a strong foundation for safe and responsible driving.
Obey the Law
When it comes to learning to drive, one of the most important things for your teen to remember is to obey the law. This means following the speed limit and coming to complete stops at stop signs and red lights. It also includes refraining from any dangerous or reckless behaviors, such as texting while driving, aggressive driving, and other reckless behavior.
Drive Defensively
First, remind them to always keep a safe distance between themselves and other cars. Maintaining this buffer zone gives your teen time to react in the case of a potential accident. Second, teach them to use their turn signals well in advance so that drivers around them can anticipate their movements. This will help other drivers make decisions and avoid running into each other. Third, remind them to always be aware of the speed limits and obey them. Additionally, they should adjust their speed based on the road conditions. If it’s raining, snowing or there are potholes in the road, they should slow down to allow for extra time to stop if necessary. Finally, encourage your teen to stay focused while they are behind the wheel. The distraction of cell phones, music and other passengers can put everyone at risk.
Be Aware of Road Conditions
Your teen should be aware of any changes in weather conditions. Rain, snow, and ice can all impact the way a road is driven. If there’s any chance of inclement weather, remind your teen to slow down and increase their following distance. Make sure your teen is equipped with the proper safety equipment for any type of weather. Additionally, teach your teen to be aware of the different types of roads they may encounter. From highways to country roads, each has its own unique dangers. Remind your teen that it’s always important to be aware of their speed when on highways and interstates. On country roads, be sure to warn your teen of any blind spots or narrow curves.
Be Aware of Other Drivers
Make sure to explain the importance of paying attention to the speed and distance of other cars, as well as the possible consequences of disregarding them. Encourage your teen to be mindful of other drivers and always look twice before making a move. Additionally, remind your teen that sometimes other drivers may be engaging in dangerous behaviors. To prevent a potential accident, it’s best to stay out of their way and avoid engaging in any kind of road rage.
Keep Your Cool
As a parent of a new driver, it can be stressful watching your teen take to the road for the first time. It’s important to remember that, just like any other skill, driving takes practice and patience. Keeping your cool is key. If you’re nervous or frustrated, it could make your teen anxious as well. This could lead to poor decision making and even accidents.
If your teen gets into an accident, contact a car accident lawyer near you for help.