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TALKING TO YOUR TEEN ABOUT SAFE DRIVING PRACTICES

Learning to drive and taking the car out for the first time alone is a right of passage for teenagers—and their parents. One of the most valuable lessons you can pass on to your teenager is the importance of safe driving. Teaching them that safe driving matters will protect them and reduce the risk of accidents with other drivers on the road. Teenagers may act like they don’t want to hear what their parents have to say, but in reality, they’re listening. Here are some strategies that can help you get the message across about safe driving practices.

Set Boundaries

When teens start driving, rules are important. Set the stage for a smooth driving experience for your teen by setting rules that will make driving easier. Limit the number of passengers your teen is allowed to carry in his or her car, and ban the use of cellphones. Make seatbelts a must for your teen and any passengers he or she drives around. Limit driving to specific hours, so your teen isn’t out on the road late at night or after parties.

Be an Example

Teens watch how their parents drive and often mimic what they see. Make sure your teen sees you driving safely. Observe the speed limit, don’t follow closely, and keep aggressive driving in check. Don’t drink and drive. If your teen sees that safe driving is a priority for you, he or she is much more likely to follow suit.

Get Involved

Even when your teen is officially licensed, ride with him or her regularly, and offer critiques. Continue talking about your expectations for safe driving and the rules you expect your teen to follow.

A smart safety decision you can make as a family is putting Pulse® into your vehicles. Pulse® is a pulsing third brake light that draws other drivers’ attention, reducing the risk of rear-end collisions. To find out how Pulse® can work for you, visit our website.