In Indianapolis, like every other city, teen motorists are more likely to be involved in automobile accidents because they have less experience and are taking unnecessary risks. As a parent, you can do your part to reduce that risk by half by assisting your teen in learning to drive safely.
If you are hurt in an accident caused by a teen driver, Indianapolis car accident lawyers can guide you through the legal process while protecting your family’s rights. However, as always, the best course is to avoid having such accidents happen in the first place. These are ways through which you can avoid teen-created car accidents:
1. Set a Good Example
Teens are more likely to follow the driving habits they see at home. If you consistently drive safely, your teen is more likely to do the same. Always obey traffic laws, wear your seat belt, avoid distractions, and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
2. Create Clear Rules
Set clear rules for your teen’s driving. These could include curfews, limits on the number of passengers, and rules about phone use while driving. In Indianapolis, teens with probationary licenses can only have one passenger under 21 unless accompanied by an adult. Make sure your teen understands the consequences for breaking these rules, such as losing driving privileges.
3. Ease Them Into Driving
Instead of letting your teen drive in challenging conditions right away, start with less risky situations, like driving during the day and on familiar roads. As they gain experience, you can allow them to drive at night or in bad weather. This gradual approach helps your teen build confidence and skill without feeling overwhelmed.
4. Emphasize Focused Driving
Distractions, especially phones, are a major cause of teen accidents. Set a rule that phones should be put away while driving. In Indianapolis, texting while driving is illegal, and it’s important to stress that using phones behind the wheel is dangerous.
Remind your teen about other distractions, like loud music or eating, and encourage them to stay focused on the road.
5. Talk About Impaired Driving
Discuss the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or even prescription medications. Make it clear that impaired driving is never acceptable and that there are serious legal and personal consequences. Encourage your teen to use public transportation or call for a ride if they are ever in a situation where they might be tempted to drive impaired.
6. Consider a Defensive Driving Course
A defensive driving course teaches valuable skills, such as reacting in emergencies and handling challenging conditions. Many driving schools in Indianapolis offer these courses, which can help your teen become a more confident and cautious driver. These classes are a great way to supplement their formal driver’s education.
7. Monitor Their Driving
Use technology to keep track of your teen’s driving. Many cars have built-in systems that track speed and driving habits, and some apps or GPS devices can provide this information too. This helps ensure that your teen is following the rules and driving safely, while also holding them accountable for their actions.
8. Explain the Dangers of Speeding
Speeding increases the risk of accidents, especially for teens who may not fully understand the dangers.
Talk to your teen about the importance of following speed limits and adjusting their speed based on the weather or traffic conditions. In Indianapolis, speeding can lead to fines and accidents, so it’s important to drive within the limits.
9. Help Them Resist Peer Pressure
Teens are often influenced by their friends, especially when it comes to risky driving behaviors like speeding or racing. Teach your teen how to resist peer pressure and make their own decisions. Encourage them to speak up if they are in a situation where their friends are encouraging dangerous driving.
10. Keep the Communication Open
Finally, always keep the lines of communication open with your teen. Let them know they can talk to you about any driving situation that makes them uncomfortable. Building trust and providing guidance will help your teen feel more confident in making safe decisions on the road.