Set Them Up for Success: Teaching Young Drivers The Rules of The Road

Youth is considered something to be cherished, and enjoyed, which often means young people are allowed some flexibility when it comes to rules and regulations. While lack of accountability for television time, data usage on their smartphone, or breaking curfew might be ok every now and then, one area that allows ZERO wiggle room is how your teen driver behaves behind the wheel. Driving is a huge responsibility, and should be treated with respect, regardless of age. A flippant attitude toward operating a vehicle can have terrible and long-lasting consequences.

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent your teen from getting into an accident when behind the wheel, there are precautions you can take with your new driver to encourage his or her success when driving.

• Speeding is NEVER ok. The speed limits are there for the safety of yourself and others on the road, so obey them.
• Distracted driving is deadly. Tell your young driver to put down the phone, keep the music at a moderate level, and keep interaction with friends and/or passengers to a minimum.
• Driving under the influence is never worth it. It’s against the law, and it could take the life of you or of an innocent victim. Have a policy in place for pickup arrangements if your teen makes a poor decision and gets in a bind. It’s better to have an open conversation and understanding as their parent, than have your young person in a serious accident because they were afraid to call you when they made a mistake.

We know that responsibility is developed with age and experience in many cases, but driving isn’t one of those cases. Another thing developed with age is your driving record, and your auto insurance policies can, and do, reflect that record. Make sure your teen knows the importance of their driving history and how it can play a part in their life for many years to come, affecting them financially in addition to other ways. If you are getting ready to hand your teen the keys, and want to make sure your coverage is at its best, we are here and ready to help. Carroll Marshall Insurance will go over your current policy and find out if you need to make changes, and how to best protect yourself and the ones you love.

Give us a call or stop by our Winter Haven office!