Super Safe Driving Tips for Teenage Drivers

Teenage drivers are responsible for more auto accidents than any other age group. Let that sink in: drivers aged 16-19 have more accidents than drivers older than them,

Many accidents could be prevented if young people practiced safer driving techniques, keeping themselves (and their passengers) safe on the road. Plus, they’ll increase their chances of getting more affordable car insurance if they build a personal good driving record.

So whether your teen is hitting the road for the first time, or has been driving for months, here are some safe driving tips for all – especially teems.

1. Keep your cell phone off

Study after study show that using a cell phone while driving is equivalent to driving drunk, even when using a hands-free phone. California prohibits the use of a cell phone while driving.

2. Don’t text

Teenagers’ favorite mode of communication is texting and sharing between phones. This kind of activity causes the driver to lose focus for nearly 5 seconds – or about as long as it would to drive the length of a football field with eyes closed. Even “texting while at a stoplight is dangerous – drivers should be fully aware of their surroundings at all times.

3. Turn on the Headlights

Using headlights increases visibility and helps other drivers see you, even when you feel like it’s light out. In the early morning and early evening (dusk), you need to use your lights or other drivers might not see you, which can be disastrous.

4. Obey the Speed Limit

The speed limit is not a suggestion, it’s the law. Speeding is a major contributor to fatal car accidents involving teenagers, especially on busy roads and bridges. “Keeping up with traffic,” is not an excuse for speeding. Driving a safe speed helps your well being, and keeps you away from costly traffic tickets that can cause a sharp hike in your auto insurance.

5. Minimize Distractions

 If it’s tempting to eat, drink, flip around the radio dial, or play music loudly while you’re driving, remember that all can cause your mind or vision to wander, even for a few seconds. An inexperienced driver is more likely than long-time drivers. Driving distracted means you’ll miss impending danger or notice it too late, or lose control of the vehicle entirely.

6. Drive Solo

Just a single passenger in the car increases the chances that the driver will not notice impending danger or notice it too late and lose the ability to control the vehicle.

7. Practice, No, Master Defensive Driving

Be aware of the traffic ahead, behind, and next to you, and always drive so that you have possible escape routes in mind. Stay at least one car length behind the car in front of you in slower speeds, and maintain a larger buffer zone with faster speeds. Some car insurance companies will even give you a discount if you take an approved defensive driving course to improve your driving skills.

8. Choose a Safe Car

Whenever possible, drive a safe car with the latest safety equipment (anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and air bags), and one with a better-than-excellent crash safety record.

When Teens Drive Safely

When it comes to driving experience, there’s no substitute. By applying these simple tips. The odds may be in your favor. Of course, with a good driving record free of accidents, it’s easier to find cheap car insurance in the future.

If you have any questions about adding a teenager to your auto insurance policy, feel free to email me at aromo@vanbeurden.com.