Many young people dream of learning to drive and getting a driving license. However, most of them don’t understand the challenges that come with driving. As a parent, you have the responsibility to teach your teenage boy or girl about the importance of safe driving.
In case your young one gets involved in an accident, one of the first steps is to contact an automobile accident lawyer. Whether it is your first time driving or you are an experienced driver, the following tips will help you stay safe on the road.
1. Put On Your Seat Belt
Studies show that people who do not wear seat belts are 10 times more likely to die during a road crash. Seat belts save lives because they distribute forces from a crash across the pelvis and chest – some of the strongest parts of your body. Always encourage your teenager to buckle up before they start their journey.
2. Accelerate Slowly
It is always tempting to slam on the gas pedal immediately after the light goes green. However, you should restrain yourself as much as possible. Your car’s engine works better when it’s eased into higher speeds. You should start from a complete stop and slowly increase the pressure on the gas pedal.
3. Don’t Use Your Mobile Phone
The visual, physical, cognitive and physical distraction of mobile devices is a major contributor to unsafe driving that leads to road accidents. As a parent, you should not allow your teenage children to drive while using their phones. The best way to encourage safe driving is to lead by example.
4. Maintain a Safe Speed
As young drivers become more comfortable with driving, it becomes more tempting to drive past the safe driving limits. Nonetheless, adhering to the set speed limit is not just about following the law but is also important for your own safety and other road users.
5. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
As a new driver, learn to check your mirrors more frequently. Your eyes should always be moving, checking for anything that can endanger your life. In case you spot a vehicle showing signs of aggressive driving, the best option is to pull over or slow down.
6. Don’t Drink and Drive
Most drivers tend to ignore warnings against drunk driving. If you must drink, then it would be better to have someone else on the steering wheel. A lot of people lose their lives in our country because of drunk driving. Other than putting your life and those of others at risk, you may end up in jail or lose your driving license because of a DUI offense.
7. Take Note of Road Signs
Have a holistic understanding of all road signs, pavement markings and safety signals. No matter how experienced or confident you are in your driving skills, never ignore road signs or safety signals. All road signs are placed there for a reason and not paying attention to them is a recipe for a road crash.
While most young people desire to learn how to drive and get a driving license, it is also important to understand the risks and challenges that come with driving. The safety of your child is more than anything else. You should work with an experienced automobile accident lawyer in case of an accident.