When your teen passes their test and can now be trusted to get behind the wheel of independence, you’re both happy and frightened for them!
You’ve spent years ferrying them back and forth and keeping them safe in the car with you, but now it’s entirely up to them to drive carefully and get from A to B.
And while you trust them to obey the rules of the road and stay alert, you just can’t shake that seed of worry every time you know they’re taking the car out somewhere.
That’s why it’s a good idea to set the stage for a few crucial road habits. The sooner they learn these, the safer they’re likely to be when driving – and that can be a real weight off for you!
Stop sooner than you think you need to
No matter how dry the road is, what the visibility level is, whether it’s sunny or raining and foggy, teach your teen that stopping earlier than you think necessary is essential!
This gives you so much more time to react, in case of a sudden break from the car in front, a random skid of your own tires, or someone else deciding to suddenly try and cut in.
While this is taught in driving courses as part of learning to be safe, it’s honestly one of the first things that flies out of your head once you’ve passed. So double check your teen understands the importance before you ask them about anything else!
Keep your cockpit stocked
Driving requires you to pay attention to the road, use your mirrors, check your blind spots, etc., all from the comfort of the driver’s seat. So it only follows that this seat should be a comfortable place to be.
Regularly remind your teen to take water and snacks on drives, and let them know they can customise their seat with as many comfort items as they like. Ergonomic supports are most important, like a seatbelt cover, or a cushion to sit or rest on.
Drive by the rules, no matter what other drivers think
Peer pressure isn’t just something your teen is counteracting in school. They can experience it on the road as well, when other drivers start honking their horns and tailgating.
This behaviour is one of the most dangerous things any driver can encounter, and many Road Traffic Accident Claims arise from this kind of careless and impatient driving. And your teenager may have more nerves to overcome than the average adult, which can make this pressure harder to resist.
So try to get them into the habit of following driving laws to the letter, no matter how other drivers may seem to be reacting. It’s the purest form of defense driving there is, and while it takes a bit of practice, it’s essential for staying safe.
You can never be sure your teen will drive safely, but you can keep it on their mind with habits like these.