Summertime means more teens are on the roads, enjoying their break and newfound freedom. This can be a worrisome time for parents, as distracted driving is a significant concern. With more daylight hours and increased traffic, summer driving requires extra attention and care.
Encourage focused driving
It’s essential to remind your teen that driving requires their full attention. Encourage them to put their phones away while driving. Explain the dangers of texting, browsing, or even talking on the phone, as these activities can significantly increase the risk of accidents. In fact, more than 17% of crashes in the state involving a teen were due to distracted driving.
Explain to your teen the penalties connected with driving issues to encourage them to avoid those penalties through safe driving practices.
Limit distractions
Teens often drive with friends, which can be a major distraction. Set rules about how many passengers your teen can have in the car. Discuss the importance of keeping music at a reasonable volume and avoiding any activities that take their focus off the road, such as eating or using navigation systems while driving.
Set a good example
Your driving habits influence your teen. Always wear your seatbelt, obey traffic laws, and avoid distractions while driving. Your actions speak louder than words, so demonstrating safe driving practices is one of the best ways to teach your teen how to drive safely and avoid car accidents.
Regularly check the vehicle
Make sure your teen’s car is in good condition. Regular maintenance, such as checking the brakes, tires, and lights, can prevent breakdowns and accidents. Teach your teen how to perform basic checks and encourage them to report any issues immediately.
Steering toward a safer summer
Taking the time to educate your teen about safe driving habits is an investment in their well-being and your peace of mind. With a bit of guidance and regular check-ins, you can help them navigate the busy summer roads with confidence and caution and avoid accidents.