As summer winds down and August brings students back to school, the roads will be filled with young drivers behind the wheel. For many high school students, this is their first time driving independently, a big milestone that comes with big responsibility. For new college students, this may be the first time they are driving in new surroundings. Here are some key tips to helping your teen drivers stay safe and prepared.
1. Focus on Preventing Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents among teens, especially when it comes to texting while driving. Encourage your teen to keep their phone out of reach, avoid eating or adjusting the GPS while driving, and stay fully focused on the road. No message is more important than safety. Plan ahead before getting on the road so that you know your directions and destination.
Parking lots can be a hazard as well. Talk to your teen about not being distracted while they pull out of their parking spot. They should take their time when leaving and not get into a rush. They should be on the lookout for other cars backing out and be aware of their surroundings.
2. Know What to Do If an Accident Happens
Even the safest drivers can experience accidents. It is important that your teen knows what steps to take in case something goes wrong.
· Stay calm and move to a safe location if possible.
· Check for injuries and call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt.
· Exchange contact and insurance information with all parties involved, including license plate numbers.
· Take photos of both vehicles, any damage, and the surrounding area.
· Call home and notify your insurance agent as soon as possible.
3. What to Do If You Get Pulled Over
Getting pulled over by a police officer can feel overwhelming, especially for a new driver. Teaching your teen how to handle this situation calmly and respectfully is crucial.
· As soon as they see flashing lights, they should safely pull over to the right side of the road.
· Remind them to stay in the car with their hands visible on the steering wheel.
· Wait for the officer to approach and speak first. Avoid reaching for anything until instructed.
· Be polite, speak clearly, and follow the officer’s directions.
· If asked for a driver’s license, registration, or proof of insurance, let the officer know where those items are before reaching for them.
· If they feel unsure or scared, they should remain calm and can politely ask for clarification.
· After the stop, they should let you know what happened and share any citations or concerns.
Preparing your teen for this kind of interaction can help reduce fear and keep the situation respectful and safe.
4. Set Clear Driving Rules at Home
Setting boundaries is one of the best ways to support your teen’s safety. Establish clear guidelines such as no passengers during the first few months of driving, no driving after dark without permission, and what to do in the case of bad weather. Discuss the importance of always wearing a seatbelt and not using their phone while driving. These simple rules can help reduce distractions and build good habits.
5. Review Your Insurance Coverage
If you are adding a new driver to your policy, now is the time to review your current auto insurance coverage. Make sure your plan offers the protection your family needs. The team at TWFG – Denise Davis Insurance is here to help you find a policy that fits your situation and gives you peace of mind.
Driving is an exciting privilege, but it is also a serious responsibility. By staying informed and taking the right steps now, you can help ensure your teen is safe and prepared for the road ahead.
If you are ready to review your current auto policy or need to add a new driver, we are here to make the process simple and stress-free. Contact us today to get started.