National Teen Driver Safety Week is October 15-21, 2023. During this time, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and businesses like Glaser’s Collision Centers help spread the word about teen driving safety. This is a great time to review safe driving habits with your teen drivers. Data shows that some of the greatest dangers for teen drivers is alcohol consumption, inconsistent or no seat belt use, distracted driving, phone use, speeding, and driving with passengers. As a parent, it is important to help ensure your teen is safe on the road. Talk to your teen.

Good driving habits

First and foremost, make sure your teen gets plenty of practice driving with you or another responsible adult before they get their license. This will help them develop good driving habits and feel more confident behind the wheel. Encourage your teen to obey all traffic laws and never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Set Boundaries

It is also important to set boundaries for your teen driver. Consider implementing a driving curfew, limiting the number of passengers they can have in the car, and prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving. Your teen looks up to you more than you think. Set a good example for them when you’re behind the wheel — don’t drive distracted or impaired, don’t speed, don’t text and drive and always wear a seat belt.

In case of an accident

In the unfortunate event that your teen does get into a car accident, make sure they know what to do. Teach them to stay calm, call 911 if necessary, and exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver. Above all, let your teen know that you are there to support them and help them learn from their mistakes.

Teens can be a challenge

Parenting teens can be a challenge. While there are some battles that just aren’t worth fighting, protecting them behind the wheel is worth the fight. By following these tips, you can help ensure your teen driver stays safe on the road. Remember, it is never too early to start teaching safe driving practices.

If your teens needs help understanding the impact of careless driving, call our office and we can show them many examples of what cars look like after an accident.