Tips for Parents of Teen Drivers

Written by Dan MacDonald

Summer is revving its engine, and it's a great time of year for teenagers.

For parents, though, this is a time of high anxiety. The onset of summer is the deadliest time of the year for teen drivers. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that the 101 days from Memorial Day to Labor Day produce a spike in traffic accidents, injuries and deaths among young people.

To help keep your teens safe behind the wheel, here are a few quick tips for parents of teen drivers from thinkbeforeyoudrive.ca:

Create a driving contract for your teen, and be prepared to stick to it. A driving contract is a great way to let teens know that driving is both a privilege and a serious responsibility. It also establishes clear expectations about driving for your teen: always wear a seat belt, never get into a vehicle with someone who’s been drinking, etc. A customizable contract template is available at thinkbeforeyoudrive.ca.

Set a clear expectation: no texting or tweeting behind the wheel. Research increasingly shows in-car distractions are a leading cause of serious car crashes involving teens. Your mandate needs to be clear: not while you’re driving! No exceptions.

Set a good example. Practice what you preach. When parents run red and yellow lights, speed down the highway, weave in and out of traffic, ride the bumper of the car in front of them and exhibit signs of road rage, they are telling teens that rules don't count - and this can be fatal. Be a role model for your teen.

Check your tires! New drivers need to understand that it’s their responsibility to keep their car in good working order. Top off your fluids, check the oil and always keep your tires properly inflated (tiresafety.com is a good resource). Tires need to be checked every month with a tire gauge. It’ll save you money at the pump and keep your teen safer out on the road.

Choose an ICE contact. All drivers should designate an emergency contact in the address book of their cell phones under the name ‘ICE’ - In Case of Emergency. Emergency workers in many towns check for an ICE contact in cell phones.