Getting a driver’s license is an exciting milestone for many Texas teenagers. A driver’s license is a sign of independence from parents and exploring a whole new world.
However, as a Texas parent, you might view your teenager getting a driver’s license as just one more thing to worry about.
Teenage drivers are inexperienced. This, combined with potentially drunk, distracted or aggressive drivers on the roads, often increases the chance of an accident. Factors such as poor weather conditions or heavy traffic also make driving more challenging for teenagers.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, teenage drivers between the ages of 16 to 19 are almost three times more likely to be in a fatal car accident than older drivers.
There are many reasons that teenagers are more susceptible to being involved in an accident. Aside from basic inexperience, some teenagers have not yet developed the motor skills and coordination necessary to drive safely.
Teenagers can also be more distracted, which can lead to speeding, tailgating or other hazardous driving behaviors that lead to accidents.
What can parents do?
Here are some tips for helping your teenager be a safer driver.
Provide your teenager with extra driving practice. Driver’s education programs offered through school or other organizations typically only offer the minimum number of hours of driving practice required to obtain a license.
The number of hours necessary to become a reasonably competent driver is usually higher, so offer them extra practice as much as you can.
Most driver’s education programs allow teenagers to acquire a learner’s permit, which allows them to drive only with a licensed driver aged 21 or older.
When you get to this point, talk with your teenager’s driving instructor before driving with them to learn what areas your teenager needs more practice in. Start with basic driving skills and slowly introduce other situations. These can include driving at night, on different types of roadways, in different weather conditions and in heavy traffic.
Teach them respect for the road. Emphasize that a driver’s license is a privilege, not a right, and that abusing this privilege comes with consequences.
Practice what you preach. Your teenager may be pulled over for a traffic infraction but only receive a warning.
However, a punishment such as not allowing them to drive for a short period, such as week, can help them learn that actions have consequences. When they get back behind the wheel, they may have a newfound respect for the privilege of driving.
Choosing a vehicle and setting rules
Always make sure your teenager is driving a safe vehicle. Many teenagers want to save up and purchase their own vehicle, but with limited incomes, this often means an older, unsafe vehicle. Make the investment in a newer and reliable vehicle.
Educate your teenager on routine car maintenance, such as checking fluids and tire air pressure. Teach them how to change a tire.
Once your teenager has their license, set firm rules, such as no driving or riding with anyone drinking or under the influence of drugs.
Set limits around when and under what conditions they can drive. For example, you may want to forbid driving at night or going over a certain distance from home.
Teach them street smarts, such as not picking up hitchhikers or accepting rides from strangers if their vehicle breaks down. Show them how to drive defensively and watch for negligent drivers on the roads.
Following these tips can help your teenager become a safe and responsible driver and reduce their risk of serious injury in a car accident.