Thinking about your teenage son or daughter driving on the roads and highways of your city may be sending you as a parent into paroxysms of horror. The number one incident you fear is a car accident, and you want to do everything in your power to make sure this does not happen to your child on your watch. Some basic steps you can take to ensure that this just doesn’t occur include the following.
Set an Example
If you want your family members to drive carefully and watch out for other drivers, you must do the same. Don’t be a poster child for road rage and get upset at every little mishap. Follow the driving rules, and don’t use the “Don’t do as I do, do as I say” rule. Always respond appropriately to traffic lights and signs. Never text or talk on your phone while driving. Remember, your teens are watching, and they could very well emulate your behaviors while driving on their own.
Enroll Them in Driver’s Education
Many teens do not learn well under Mom and Dad’s tutelage. Sometimes an objective instructor is a better choice to ensure that your teens get all-encompassing instruction from professionals who are much more familiar with the rules of the road. They also have the proper equipment inside the car to provide a safe ride while the student is learning how to drive. Many have instructional videos that are very helpful during the learning process.
Help Them Practice
Even though a parent is often not the best person to teach safe driving to their offspring, they can still make sure their teens get plenty of practice. Get in the car with your teen and show him exactly how to drive defensively. Help him become familiar with the neighborhood and driving on all types of surfaces and in all types of weather and road conditions.
Point out Other Drivers’ Errors
While you are driving with your family, make a point to call attention to driving mistakes that other motorists make. Don’t get angry with or make fun of these drivers. Just calmly state what their mistakes are and how to correct them. On the flip side, if you see a driver who is showing great caution in a dangerous situation, call their attention to that scenario as well.
Be Proactive
Even if your child does have an accident, know that attorneys such as Abels & Annes, P.C., can be of huge assistance. Common mishaps such as when a car gets broad-sided can make it difficult to determine who was at fault. This is where qualified representation can assist you and your family. Keep attorney names and phone numbers close at hand—hopefully, you will never have to use them.
As you can see, teaching your teens to avoid accidents is going to be an ongoing project. Know that it will take time for them to learn all of the rules of the road and how to drive defensively. You will know that you have done everything you can to ensure their well-being and safey.
