In the UK, you must be 17 years old to drive a car after you’ve passed a theory test. In the U.S., the legal driving age is 16, and you have to partake in hours of driver’s training. But, if you’re a parent, all of the training in the world likely won’t help your nerves when your teenager gets behind the wheel for the first time.
Driving is a right of passage for everyone, and teenagers have to start somewhere. While it’s important to let your teenager learn and grow as a driver, there are things you can do to keep them safe.
By implementing some of these tips, your teenager might be taking the wheel on your next summer road trip. Or, at the very least, they will be able to drive themselves to school each day!
- Set a Good Example
Even though it may not always seem like it, your teenagers are always watching what you do. That includes what you do behind the wheel. So, when you’re driving (especially with your teens in the car), set a positive example. Don’t drive while distracted, follow the rules of the road, go the speed limits, and be a respectful driver to others.
In doing so, you will show your teenager first-hand how they need to act on the road, and how important it is to pay attention while driving.
- Keep Their Car Well-Maintained
One of the best things you can do to ensure your teenager’s safety on the road is to make sure their car is taken care of. Teach them about the importance of car maintenance. That includes everything from oil changes to tire rotations.
When a car gets the maintenance it needs on a regular basis, your teenager will be less likely to experience problems on the road and not know what to do. A reliable mechanic will let you know if the car is safe to drive, and offer solutions if/when something goes wrong. Teach your teenager what to look for, as well as some common car problems they might run into, so they will know how to handle them.
- Utilize Technology
In recent years, apps have become available that you can download straight to your phone to monitor your teen’s driving habits. These apps can do things like sending you a text message when your teen driver goes over the speed limit. There are also apps that will block out someone’s availability to use a phone/text while driving, which can be incredibly beneficial for teenagers who might get easily distracted behind the wheel.
You may not be able to protect your teenage driver from every risk while they’re on the road. But, as a parent, it’s normal to want to keep them as safe and secure as possible. Keep these tips in mind if you have a teenager in your house who is about to hit the road for the first time, and you can find peace of mind in knowing that they will be a little bit safer.
