Teen drivers are at heightened risk of getting into an accident. But there are things parents can do to reduce those chances.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests:
- Making sure your teen gets plenty of initial driving time with an experienced adult in the car.
- Barring your child from taking other teens as passengers for at least the first six months.
- Prohibiting teens from driving past 10 p.m. for the first six months. But it’s a good idea to practice night driving with an adult in the car.
- Making sure your child always wears a seat belt.
- Prohibiting your teen from using a cell phone while behind the wheel, driving while drowsy and driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Making sure your teen always obeys the speed limit, and never drives recklessly.