Teen Drivers - Getting Them On The Road Safely

Last week we talked about the alarming statistics that present themselves in today's world of teen drivers. With all these alarming statistics, how do we get them on the road safely? I'd like to give you a timeline that you can work on to ensure that by the time they are ready to drive, they'll be as equipped as possible.

12 Months Prior To Driving

The conversation with your children should start long before they are planning on getting their license. Remember the old saying, "Do what I say, not what I do!"? Well this is particularly true when it comes to driving. Set the example. If you don't want your children to be distracted drivers, then you should not be. This is a much easier conversation when it reflects your own behavior. Distracted driving is dangerous for all drivers, regardless of age. But the stats are hire for novice drivers who engage in manual-visual tasks behind the wheel. So at a year, have a conversation with your teen helping them understand how certain behaviors behind the wheel will increase the likelihood of a crash. These include:

• speeding
• tailgating
• drowsy driving
• driving under the influence
• eating
• texting
• grabbing for an item
• having lose items in the vehicle
• friends grabbing your attention
• answering your phone physically

6 Months In Advance

• Talk to your teen about the plan of them driving. Will they drive every day? To school? To lunch? To work? To sporting events? To friends? Run errands?
• Do they plan on owning a car? If so discuss insurance premiums, repair cost and fines for unsafe driving.
• Set the rules up so everyone knows what to expect.
• Do they need to turn their phone off while driving?
• Do they need to do so many hours of driving before friends are allowed in  the car? How many friends?
• Do you have driving at night rules? Hours?
• What about bad weather driving?

I highly recommend teen driver apps that can monitor behavior, including speeding. Later this week, I'll discuss what to do at 4 months & 3 months in advance, as well as on Road Test Day. Keeping you protected.   Rick   All Access Insurance in Littleton, CO,  who represents multiple insurance companies as a “Broker” and provides products for auto, home,  commercial, workers compensation, and much more! Call us today for a free quote at (303) 932-1700