Learning how to drive can be stressful for teens and parents. Teens have the highest crash rate of all drivers. Parents can ease their anxiety and protect their kids by getting actively involved in the learning process.
Talking about driving safety regularly, creating a driving agreement, practicing driving together and leading by example can make a huge difference in helping your teen drive safer when you’re not in the car.
Talk about driving safety early and often
Start by teaching your kids what kinds of driving behaviors are risky. According to a 2016 AAA survey of driving instructors, these are the three most dangerous mistakes teens make when learning to drive:
Layout the rules of the road
Research has shown that teens report engaging in less risky behavior when there is a formal agreement to establish driving boundaries. Visit teendriving.aaa.com for a sample agreement and other information to help parents and teens navigate the learning-to-drive process.
Prepare with practice
Plan to log at least 100 hours of driving practice with your teen before letting them drive solo. Expose them to different situations while driving together – night and day, freeways and gravel roads, sunny days and wet weather – to increase their experience.
Set a good example
Show your teen that you take driving as seriously as you expect them to. Avoid speeding and distractions. Always wear your seat belt. Obey traffic laws. Never drink and drive.
Insuring your new driver
Talk with your agent about making adjustment to your policies:
For more information about auto insurance, call your AAA insurance agent or insurance customer service, or visit your local branch.