Parental Influence On Teen Drivers: Set A Good Example!

While the number of fatalities for teen drivers has declined over the years, car crashes remain the leading cause of death among teenagers. A study by Liberty Mutual and SADD found that parents are engaging in unsafe driving behaviors, like texting and driving, and therefore, setting a poor example for their kids.

Parental Influence

According to that study, parents are also not listening to their kids' warnings. When asked, 41% of teens said their parents continued to use these unsafe driving behaviors even after they asked them to stop. Also, 28% of teens said their parents justify unsafe behavior.

As with most things in your child's life, you are the number one influence on them, especially when it comes to their driving safety. Other studies have shown that teens whose parents impose driving restrictions and set good examples typically engage in less risky driving and are involved in fewer crashes.

Setting Ground Rules

So, how do parents influence their teens in the right way? Here are some tips and examples you can use to help shape your teen into a safe and responsible driver:

1. Start the Conversation Early: You need to talk to your teens about safe driving early and often, even before they reach driving age. Car crashes are the leading cause of death for 15- to 18-year-olds in the United States and 2,042 people were killed in crashes involving a teen driver in 2019. These conversations can help guide them down the right path.
2. Set the Standard: Yes, while talking is important, your actions are even more important. If you are driving with them, make sure you are practicing good habits behind the wheel. Don't use your cell phone when behind the wheel. Make sure your seat belt is on before starting your car. Small things, but when they see you doing it, then they will remember to do it also.
3. Spell Out the Rules: Set the rules and make them very clear to your teen. No cell phones, always wear your seat belt, no passengers, no speeding, no alcohol and no driving when tired. All of these are rules that could help save your teen's life.
4. Get It In Writing: Now that you have the rules in place, put them in writing. A parent-teen contract is a great way to set the ground rules and then outline the consequences for breaking those rules. The CDC offers a Parent-Teen Driving Contract. All parties agree to it and sign it, then hang it somewhere that will remind them daily of how to act behind the wheel.

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.