When it comes time for teens to learn how to drive, they’re probably anxious and excited at the prospect of getting their license. They can’t wait to get behind the wheel and start getting some real experience so they’re as prepared as they can be for their driving test.
For parents, however, the prospect of their teens getting behind the wheel can be a scary thought. With the fact that distracted driving deaths are at a high, and that according to the CDC, car crashes in general are the number one killer of young people and result in around 3,000 deaths every year, parents have a right to be concerned.
Safe Teen Driving – The Power of Example
You can help ensure that your teen becomes a safe driver simply by being a safe driver yourself! Parents becoming involved in the driving learning process can make all the difference when it comes to safe teen driving.
Your child has been watching you drive his or her entire life. Think about it- what are your driving habits like? Do you get frustrated and shout at other drivers? Do you use your cell phone or eat in the car? Do you tend to have a bit of a lead foot and follow other cars too closely? These are all things your child is probably taking note of every time you get in the car. Experts say that driver education actually begins the moment the child is in a forward-facing seat in the car.
This is why it’s so important to “practice what you preach.” How can you expect your teens to be safe drivers if you’ve got several accidents under your belt? On the other hand, if they see that when you get into your car you put your seatbelt on, check your mirrors, and put the cell phone away, they’ll be more likely to mirror this behavior when they get behind the wheel.
When you’re helping your teen get driving practice in, before you hand over the keys you can verbally walk through the safe things they should be doing the moment they get in the car. Have them sit down and explain to you what they need to do before they start the engine; seatbelt on, check rearview mirror, cell phone into glove box. These steps should become routine each time they sit down in the driver’s seat.
Use the time spent in the car with your teen as a teaching opportunity. Explain how you handle certain situations, and try not to drive with your teen when you’re tired or feeling frustrated after a long day. The more calm and safe they see you behind the wheel, the more likely your teen is to become a safe, confident driver, too.
A premier driving school like DriveTeam promotes safe teen driving and ensures that when it’s time for them to get their licenses they’ll be more than ready. Our teen driving classes ensure everyone stays as safe as possible behind the wheel. Contact us today for more information.