You drop off your teenager for the day and walk back to your car. Then, you turn around, and your child has a teenage car accident!
It’s not something any driver wants on their record, but sometimes it happens. Take a deep breath.
There are steps you can take today to help them make better driving choices and avoid car accidents in the future. Read on for our top tips on preventing a teenager from getting into a car accident.
1. Ensure They Have a Driver’s License
To get a driver’s license, teens must be at least 16, have completed a 15-hour driver’s education course, or have had 30 hours of behind-the-wheel practice. Before getting their license, teens must have the written portion of their driver’s license test. During their driver’s license test, the administering individual will note any defects in the driving performance.
2. Add Car Surveillance Systems
These systems can be as simple as a dashcam and as advanced as a GPS vehicle tracking device. A dashcam can record and store several hours of footage; some systems even allow streaming footage to the internet. GPS tracking devices enable tracking routes and send notifications if the vehicle leaves a predetermined area.
3. Set an Example of Safe Driving Habits
First, do not use your phone while driving. Establishing this right away will show that staying focused and attentive to the road is of the utmost importance.
Second, seatbelt usage ensures that all passengers are buckled in as well. Ensure passengers are aware of the consequences of not wearing a seatbelt. Third, follow all speed limits and traffic laws.
4. Avoid the Use of Alcohol
To start, teens should learn about the dangers of alcohol and what it can do to the body, in addition to the possible legal implications. They should establish a “no drinking & driving” rule with their peers and never offer to drive anyone after drinking.
Parents should ensure their teens understand the importance of not drinking and never provide any alcohol to someone under the legal drinking age. One of the best ways to help prevent crashes related to alcohol is to talk openly with teens about the risks and consequences. Educate them about how alcohol can impair judgment, reaction time, and the ability to make split-second decisions.
5. Sign Up for Defensive Driving Courses
First, local research, government, and private organizations offer free or discounted courses. Ensure the program includes comprehensive lessons on car accident safety and accident avoidance. Teenagers are typically more prone to risk-taking and are more likely to be involved in an accident than a more seasoned driver.
If the inevitable does happen and a car accident does occur, it is essential to employ an auto accident attorney to advise and protect legal rights. Auto accident attorneys can help offload the stress of dealing with insurance and court systems and provide personal support as a parent’s teen moves through the accident litigation process.
Prevent a Teenager Car Accident Now
Accidents can be devastating for teenage drivers, families, and communities alike. Following the tips outlined in this article can help teens take the extra preventative measures necessary to stay safe on the road.
It’s important to remember that teen driving can be simply a more dangerous activity, so make sure to take extra caution! Now that you know more about teenage car accident prevention, why not share these tips with your friends and family?
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