There are many reasons that teenagers are more likely to be involved in a car accident than an adult. From their lack of experience to their feelings of immortality, safety is not generally the first priority of most teen drivers. If you are the parent of a teen driver and want to ensure that your child is as safe as possible when they get behind the wheel, keep reading. If you have a teen who has been injured in this type of accident then we welcome your call to The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 for a free legal consultation.
Enroll Your Child in Driving School
Can you teach your child to drive? Probably but that doesn’t mean that you should. You may be able to teach them basic math but don’t you trust a full-time math teacher to teach it more effectively? The same is true of driver’s education instructors. They know every law of the road and they are experienced instructors. You may even find that your insurance company will give you a discount on your teen’s insurance if they have completed a driver’s education course.
Make Sure Your Teen Understands the Seriousness of the Issue
Many teens simply do not realize or accept how dangerous a car accident can be. Show them news stories about teens who have died in auto accidents. Share personal stories about people you know who have been injured in car accidents and faced long recovery periods. Talk to them about the potential damage to their future they could face if they drive recklessly and are held criminally responsible for any resulting accidents and / or injuries.
Insist on No Texting and Driving
Texting and driving is extremely dangerous. In fact, some studies have shown that it is the cause of more teen accidents than drinking and driving. There is no question that your teen should never text and drive – under any circumstances. Talk to them about how and why this is so important. Create a contract and have them sign in. If necessary, download an app that renders their phones inoperable while they are driving. This may sound harsh but their life is literally on the line.
Make Your Expectations Clear
One of the most important things you can do is to ensure that your teen knows what is expected of them. Talk to them about not texting while driving, but do not end the conversation there. Give them instructions on not speeding, making full stops at red lights and stop signs, and being safe on the roads. Even more important, model this behavior for them when you are driving.
If they are involved in an accident then your first priority will be to ensure that they are safe and recover from their injuries. Then contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 if you are in need of a free legal consultation.
