Driving Tips For Newly Licensed California Teen Drivers

You have passed all your tests and you are now a newly licensed driver in California. It is an exciting time, but we wanted to share some driving tips to keep in mind as you get behind the wheel by yourself for the first time.

Be Considerate Of Other Drivers

When driving, it is always essential to have good driver etiquette. You aren't the only person on that road, so don't drive like you own it. Also, don't make any assumptions about what other drivers are going to do. Pay attention for aggressive drivers and stay clear of them. Always remember to use your turn signals, as other drivers and pedestrians do not know what your intentions are.

Do Not Drive Distracted

Regardless of your age, distracted driving is a hazard. For new drivers especially, they are learning the roads and need to stay focused. Do not talk on the phone, check your text messages or get on any social media pages while driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that texting while driving increases a teen's risk of crashing 23 times!

Keep Vigilant

You need to stay focused on the road and should be working on scanning the road. This allows you to react in time. By scanning the road, you are looking down the road, ahead of you. You are trying to anticipate any potential hazards that may be coming. You can do this also by checking your rearview and side-view mirrors to keep an eye on vehicles next to you or behind you.

Make Sure You Understand The Risks

Before even getting into the vehicle, newly licensed teen drivers should know the hazards of getting behind the wheel. Know that 75% of teen driving accidents take place because of critical errors, like driving above the speed limit, distracted driving or late-night driving. By knowing these risks, it can help you be more mindful and keep you and your friends safe.

Do Not Drive Under The Influence

Never drink and drive. Even if you think you can handle it, do not take the risk. Call your parents, a friend or get an Uber. On the same note, you should never get into a vehicle with someone that has been drinking also.

Tips For Parents Of Teen Drivers

While these driving tips are crucial for newly licensed teen drivers, there are also some tips parents of these teen drivers can also consider. They are:

• Be Patient - You have to remember, the only way someone is going to learn is by making mistakes. Your teenager will not be perfect behind the wheel, but it is a matter of you trying to stay positive and help minimize the risk when those mistakes happen. Keep in mind, if they do something good or make a big accomplishment, praise them for it.
• Set The Rules - Before letting your teen hit the road, put some rules in place for them. The NHTSA tells parents to follow the "5 to Drive," which includes no speeding, no cell phones, no passengers, no driving without a seat belt and no driving under the influence. If your state doesn't have a curfew for new drivers, we recommend putting a curfew in place for your teen driver.
• Set A Good Example - Your kids look up to you. If they see you doing something while behind the wheel, they are going to remember that and try to emulate it. Make sure they are trying to emulate the good examples you are providing for them.

Make An Emergency Kit For The Vehicle

Even with all the preparation in the world, accidents can happen. If this were to happen, you want to make sure you are prepared in case you get stranded somewhere. To do this, make an emergency kit for the car, which would include:

• Flashlight
• Road flares
• Duct tape
• Gloves
• Cable ties
• Lighter
• Screwdriver
• Batteries
• Bungee cords
• Road safety guide
• Basic first aid kit
• Tire gauge
• Spare tire/jack/lug wrench
• Portable external battery to charge a phone
• Blankets
• Food with a long shelf life
• Bottled water

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our friendly support staff. If you want to start your driver's training journey with Coastline Academy, make sure to sign up for Drivers Ed and book your driving lesson today.