We know that having a new teen driver in your home is an exciting (& maybe a bit scary) time for both the parents and the teens. It’s an adjustment for everyone, and there are things that you can do to make it easier. Be sure to check out the DMV’s website to make sure you understand the special laws that apply to teenage drivers. You’ll also want to update your knowledge of what is required with Driver’s Education, the Written Permit Test, and the Behind the Wheel Test.
Those items are all the basic necessities to get that coveted Drivers License. But what else can you do to prepare your new teen driver? Having raised two daughters, we’ve gone through this process twice. I’m happy to say, we all survived the journey and we all learned a few things along the way. The following list of driving tips represents some very basic, but often overlooked steps to make the learning to drive process easier.
Driving Tips for Teens:
1. Take the time to get to know the car from the drivers seat. You’ve been a passenger all your life, but the driver has many more responsibilities and a different view. Be sure you understand the dashboard, warning lights, and your instrument panel. Learn basic car maintenance & where things are located. Where is the emergency kit? Where is the spare? Where are your hazard lights? How do you turn on the windshield wipers or the defroster?
2. Sit in the drivers seat and adjust all of the settings. This should be a routine every time you get in a car, and before you drive away. Adjust the seat height, adjust the mirrors, adjust the seat forward/back so that you can reach the pedals comfortably.
3. Remove any distractions! Seriously, we are not kidding. Put the phone away, don’t eat while you’re driving, and don’t turn the music up too loud. All of your focus needs to be on all of those other drivers out there sharing the road with you.
4. Don’t be in a rush! Rear-end collisions are all too common, trust me, one of our cars was totaled this way. Give yourself plenty of space between you and the car ahead. It takes longer than you think it does to stop a moving vehicle. Watch your speed, especially if you’re near a school, park, or residential neighborhood where little kids might run out into the street.
5. When you finally get licensed and get to take the car all by yourself, be kind to those that taught you. Call or text your Mom (or Dad) when you arrive at your destination. Trust me, they will be worried about you.
We are parents too, we know you may have some questions about your auto insurance now that your teen is driving. Feel free to give us a call, we’re happy to help. Rancho Cal Insurance Services in Murrieta, is helping our friends and neighbors in Murrieta, Temecula, Winchester, Menifee and all of California with their insurance needs.
