Is your teen new to the driving scene this season?For parents and guardians of new teen drivers, it may have been a nerve-wrecking Thanksgiving weekend.
BE AWARE
Make sure your teen is “present” when driving. It’s important to practice being present with your teen while driving in the car with them. It may seem simple, but many forget to be centered and alert while driving.
Nowadays, as you know, there are many more distractions with technology beyond changing a radio station.
Not surprisingly, 39% of high school student drivers said they texted and emailed while driving.
Unfortunately, every year distracted driving continues to claim thousands of lives. So, emphasizing this could potentially save their life or that of another.
BE SAFE
A defensive driver is a safe driver. Anticipating what another driver may do next is an important skill.
Learning how to avoid potential hazards and avoid a crash is key. Some of this comes with experience and you can pass on some first hand accounts of your own to your teen.
But there are also classes on defensive driving that can be helpful.
For those who think they would benefit, there are affordable and state approved defensive driving online courses in Florida.
BE LEGAL
Following the law and carrying proper id is simple to do, but sometimes forgotten. Remind your teen the importance of obeying the law, such as following speed limits, especially in their own school zones.
A new teen driver may try to find excuses to not follow the law, such as being late for school. So, it’s important to remind them that following the law for their own safety and that of others is most important.
The same goes with having proper identification if they are stopped by law enforcement. They should always carry their driver’s license and be able to provide proof of insurance and vehicle registration at all times.
So when do you know if your teenager is ready to drive, safely?
On your mark, get set, drive!
At some point a teenager will find themselves on the road next to a driving instructor who may be just as nervous as they are. Some will make mistakes and others might be surprised to know they passed their driver’s test. Seriously.
But it’s important for a new teen driver to know that it doesn’t end there. Unfortunately, much of their experience will be gained on the road as a new driver; just as with previous generations.
Only today, thanks in part to technology, there are other resources such as web pages dedicated to helping parents approach driving lessons for their teens a bit more relaxed; as well as arming them with essential tools for their new teen drivers. Parents can also ask their insurance companies for information, as many have guides and useful checklists online.
As with many topics, education is key, as well as keeping the lines of communication open with young drivers. And while they can never be too prepared, at some point, the keys will be in their hands.
After an Accident Call the Law Offices of James G. Graver, P.A.
Perhaps the best preparation as a parent or legal guardian of a new teen driver is having an experienced personal injury attorney on your side.
For 20 years, Attorney James Graver has been helping accident victims of all ages. As a trial attorney and parent of two teenagers, he is dedicated to helping families recover what they deserve.
If you or your child is involved in an accident through no fault of their own, call the Law Offices of James G. Graver, P.A. for a free and confidential consultation today at 1-888-GRAVER-3.
