Your teenager passing their driving test is one of life’s big milestones. Yet, it also means they will be exposed to increased danger.
Vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death among teens. So how can you give your teen the freedom they crave without spending every second they are away worrying?
1. Help them build up their experience
Consider traveling with your child occasionally to check their progress. Restrict them to shorter, local trips at first, perhaps at quieter times of the day. You can increase their freedom as you see them advancing.
2. Enforce restrictions
There is technology available that can help you ensure they are not using their phones while driving, speeding or any other irresponsible combination that could endanger them and others.
It also comes down to trust. Have consequences in place if they do break your trust by doing something they agreed not to, such as using their phone when moving or drinking alcohol before getting into the car.
3. Tell them “no” when necessary
Your teenager is not yet an adult in the eyes of the law because the law does not consider under-18s capable of making all decisions wisely enough. Sometimes you, as their parent, need to step in and say, “No.” It could be refusing to allow the cross-country road trip because you feel they’ll get tired driving that far. Or denying them that powerful car they crave because they are not yet experienced enough to handle it.
Remember, your teenager won’t be alone on the roads. They’ll be exposed to many other drivers, any of who could cause a vehicle crash that injures them. If this happens, they’ll need help claiming compensation.
