Tips For Parents Of Teen Drivers

Tips For Parents Of Teen Drivers

Parenting a teen can be equal parts exciting and challenging. The part of the brain that controls rational thought (prefrontal cortex) doesn’t finish its development until about age 25. This means that teens process information with the part of the brain responsible for emotions (amygdala). In other words, be prepared to give your teen critical driving safety information repetitively to help him or her stay safe and avoid auto collisions.

Be an excellent role model.

The actions of their parents have a profound effect on adolescents. Teens will mimic what they witness, whether or not they realize they’re doing it. Be a good role model for your teen while behind the wheel. Keep your cellphone turned off, drive at a safe rate of speed, and always use your turn signal before making lane changes or turning. Additionally, be mindful about the language you use while behind the wheel. Muttered remarks about the slow driver ahead of you may inadvertently tell your teen that driving faster is better and getting frustrated with other drivers is permissible.

Give your child as much practice as possible.

Even if your teen aced the written exam, there’s no substitute for experience behind the wheel. Give your child as much driving time as you can spare, ideally under a range of conditions. Your teen should practice driving under the glare of sunlight, during the evening hours, in areas of heavy traffic, and on country roads. He or she should have experience with interstate driving and parking lot navigation in all sorts of weather. Get into the habit of handing your teen the keys whenever you’re out together.

Auto collisions happen every day, which is why National Auto Collision Centers is always here to help. Call our body shop in Tucson at (520) 623-4959. Our certified technicians will handle the repairs so you can focus on making the crash a positive learning experience for your teenager.