Business : Road Rules for Your Young Driver

Randy Stein

Road Rules for Your Young Driver

Driving can be challenging for anyone, but for those with little experience in the driver’s seat, safety is a top concern. Fortunately, parents can take steps to increase the safety of their young drivers by setting clear guidelines. Specific expectations can help keep your teen focused and safe behind the wheel.

Buckle Up

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2006 the majority

(58 percent ) of young people 16 to 20 years old involved in fatal motor vehicle crashes were unbuckled. Require your teen driver and all passengers to wear safety belts at all times; it is the law after all.

Limit Distractions

Young drivers can be easily distracted while driving. Limiting the number of passengers, and restricting the use of cell phones and text messaging while behind the wheel can help keep your teen focused on the road.

Zero Tolerance

Remind teen drivers that all states have zero tolerance laws for underage drinking and driving. The majority of states have also adopted a graduated licensing system, which restricts nighttime driving, teenage passengers, and requires that all occupants wear safety belts. Graduated licensing requires that the permit-holder remain crash- and conviction-free for a certain amount of time before receiving full licensure. Setting basic road rules is one way to ensure that your teen driver understands that driving is a privilege that must be respected.

Establish a Safe Driving Pledge with Your Teen

Visit www.fbfs.com for additional information and resources about teen driving, including a Safe Driving Pledge that you and your teen can sign. It’s a good way to begin the discussion of safe driving and helps set basic expectations and consequences for driving performance. Click on Young Drivers in the Education & Tools section of our website.

Sources: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, www.nhtsa.dot.gov, visited March 19, 2008.

National Safety Council Young Drivers Fact Sheet, www.nsc.org, visited March 11, 2008.

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