6 Lessons You Should Teach Your Teens Before They Hit the Road on Their Own

Every year, millions of newly licensed drivers hit the road on their own for the first time. Those first few months of driving are a dangerous time when incidents and accidents resulting from inexperience are likely to occur. Before your teen takes the wheel solo, be sure to impart the following knowledge.

Basic Vehicular Maintenance

Every teen should know that road safety starts before they roll out of the driveway. Ensure that your teens understand the importance of regular fluid changes, tires with plenty of tread, a sturdy suspension and responsive brakes. Teach them the warning signs of automotive component failures in the making.

Quick Fixes for Common Problems

No matter how well you care for a car, dead batteries and flat tires will happen eventually if you drive enough. Knowing how to jump-start a vehicle or swap out a flat tire for an emergency spare will save young drivers time, money and frustration.

What to Pack in an Emergency Kit

Every vehicle should have an emergency roadside kit in the trunk. While the appropriate contents vary based on personal tastes and local factors, a pair of jumper cables is a must. Other prudent items include windshield washer fluid, anti-freeze, motor oil and flares. Make sure they know who to call and what to do in case of any accident or injury. Professionals like The Utah Car Accident Lawyers – Christensen & Hymas can help with any legal issues that may arise during the aftermath of a serious accident, for example. Having this knowledge can be priceless.

The Importance of Driver Awareness

While distracted driving is a danger for anyone behind the wheel, teens are more likely than most to take their eyes off of the road for too long. Teach your teens to pull over if they need to make a phone call or send a text message.

How to Avoid Dangerous Drivers

One of the gravest threats to your teen’s safety is the negligence of other drivers. Teach your teen to maintain adequate following distances between vehicles and to brake gradually when coming to a stop. Make sure that they understand how to avoid “road rage” confrontations.

How to Respond to the Unexpected

Even the most careful teen drivers will eventually encounter black ice and hydroplaning scenarios. At a minimum, your teen should know how to steer their way out of a skid. Take them to an empty parking lot during a rain or snowstorm and practice emergency maneuvers.

Making Your Safety Lessons Stick

To achieve the best results, you should start drilling teens on these key automotive safety fundamentals as soon as they get a learner’s permit. With any luck, they’ll be seasoned and safe motorists by the time they’re able to drive on their own.

Making sure everyone is safe should be paramount for a parent of a new driver and teaching them these skills is essential. These types of tips will be sure to help you and your teen stay safe on the road.