Learning to Drive: A Teenagers' Guide

​Hitting the road has always been exciting for teenagers and perturbing for parents. Slipping that driver's license into your wallet sure is a milestone to be proud of along with the sweet taste of independence and freedom that comes with it.

In the US, 16-19 year-olds are more likely to crash with 3 times the fatal crash rate compared to 20 year-olds and above. Moreover, 16-17 year-olds have nearly twice the fatal crash rate than 18-19 year-olds.

Parents should not get overwhelmed by the statistics. Here are 8 tips parents should note to their future drivers.

1. Buckle Up!
   Encourage your teens to buckle up their seatbelts. Seatbelts distribute force across the strong points of the body during a crash. Bruises are easier to see than a flying teenager through the windshield.
   
   
2. Keep the Screen Away
   Distraction could lead to painful disasters. Tell your teens to put their phones away and out of reach and sight. Teach them to stop and park if they need to use their gadgets.
   
   
3. Don't Rush to Avoid a Crash
   In the US, 31% of driving fatalities in teens is speeding. Remind your teens to stay within the limit all the time. Rushing may bring you to your destination swiftly but could also lead you to your deathbed early.
   
   
4. Watch the Blindspot
   Improve your teen's side mirror skills. They should also practice their parking, overtaking, and merging skills. These maneuvers are critical, especially if you don't mind your blind spot. Don't forget to teach them to be courteous enough to be aware of other's blindspots.
   
   
5. Drink the Booze Forever You'll Snooze
   Alcohol affects driving performance and could lead to fatal accidents. Talk to your teens about alcohol usage and its possible effects. Even the slightest alcohol content in your blood could make a significant difference.
   
   
6. Rest Before You Drive
   Driving sleepy is as dangerous as driving intoxicated. Make sure your teen takes a rest before he takes the wheel. A well-rested body improves driving performance and mental alertness.
   
   
7. Lit Up the Road
   Turn your headlights on when visibility becomes a challenge. Headlights serve both as your guide and your signal for other drivers to see you. Headlights during the day can counter dazzling reflections.
   
   
8. Control the Passengers
   Your teens are now ready to hit the road, however, remind them to regulate the number of passengers. A packed car could affect driving performance. Teach them to stay focused even in the presence of distractions.

Ensuring your teenager is truly a relief, but is he safe from negligent drivers? Get an auto insurance today and secure your loved ones and your car.

At Robert Nichols Insurance Agency, we aim to provide comprehensive insurance policies that make your life easier. We want to help you get the insurance that fits your needs. You can get more information about our products and services by calling our agency at (561) 406-6153. Get your free quote today by CLICKING HERE.