Are You A Parent of A New Driver? Here’s What You Should Know.

Independence and increased freedom is exciting for any new driver. However, this new found freedom can also come with serious risks. Auto crashes are the top killer of teen fatality in the country. Improper driving habits, inexperience and poor decision-making skills are the main culprits of these serious auto accidents. Fortunately, these accidents are typically preventable, and easier to avoid as a teenager gains experience. As a parent, what can you do to raise safe, responsible driver?

Parents influence a teen’s driving behavior more than anyone else. Parental involvement has proven to be able to cut their risk of a car accident in half. Set rules and guidelines for your teen. Speak to your child about safe driving behaviors, and be supportive.

• Stress the importance of wearing a seatbelt and require your child to buckle up. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, two-thirds of teenagers killed in crashes were not wearing seat belts.
• Limit the amount of passengers allowed while your teen is driving. Two or more peer passengers more than triple the potential of a serious crash.
• Driving at night or during hazardous weather conditions can be especially dangerous. Limit the amount of time and distance in these conditions.
• Do not let your teen use a cell phone while behind the wheel. Talking or texting on a cell phone can have deadly consequences. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety estimates the risk of a car accident is four times higher when a driver uses a cell phone.
• Warn your teenager to avoid driving while drowsy. Driving while lethargic is just as dangerous as driving with a blood alcohol concentration level of 0.08. And, of course, absolutely do not drink and drive.