Conversations to Have During Teen Driver Safety Week

For parents, the first time a child borrows his or her car is arguably one of the most stressful day of their lives. Not only do they have difficulty understanding how time has gone by so quickly since their kids were just in kindergarten, but they are also nervous about how their kids will handle their new world behind the wheel.

Having a new driver can be especially worrisome given that teenage drivers represent the highest risk group of people to be involved in fatal accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

As such, Teen Driver Safety Week is a national safety initiative where parents and teens have pointed conversations about safety behind the wheel. 

Communication between teens and parents is important because parents are the primary influence on children’s behavior (regardless of how they appear not to listen to you at times).  By having conversations about safe driving habits early and often, this can establish the proper foundation for driving safely when they are on their own.

And like the old adage, parents have to “walk the walk” in order to “talk the talk.” Parents can set good examples by showing their children how they drive. If kids see that you stay off your cell and exhibit other safe driving habits, chances are that they can do the same.

Additionally, parents can explain the legal consequences of not using reasonable care while behind the wheel. Essentially, if a teen driver fails to use such care and such a failure is found to be the cause of an accident, the teen could be held liable, which could ultimately affect the parent.

If you have questions about your rights and options after a car accident, an experienced personal injury attorney can advise you.