Coaching Your Teenage Driver

March 13, 2015||inPersonal Insurance|auto insurance, driving safety, personal insurance, teenage drivers

Getting Your License is a Right of Passage for Teenagers

It’s a symbol of growing up and having more freedom, but it also comes with more responsibility. Most teenagers seem to have a feeling of invincibility, which is great, but it needs to be tempered with an increased sense of responsibility, especially behind the wheel. That’s where parents come in.

Coaching Your Teenage Driver
Click here to submit an inquiry to Murphy Insurance or call us at 800 222 8711

There can be Lots of Mixed Emotions for Parents

You celebrate your child achieving a milestone, yet you may worry about the risks. Accidents happen even to experienced drivers, but research indicates that the greatest risk of auto accidents is among teenage drivers. The California Department of Motor Vehicles reports that the fatal crash rate for 16- to 19-year-olds is 2.7 times higher than for drivers of all ages. So, there is a justification for parents’ concerns. Yet, we all went through the same thing when we got our licenses.

The challenge is to find the right balance between setting driving safety rules and guidelines to help your teenager gain experience without nagging that could cause them to tune out.   The best way to teach a teenager good driving habits is for parents to demonstrate them consistently before the teenager gets his/her license. But, it’s also good to pass along dos and don’ts through a formal coaching discussion every now and then.

Below are some tips from the International Risk Management Institute for parents to pass on to their sons and daughters who are now getting behind the wheel for the first time.

Tips for Teenage Driving Safety

  1. Establish initial ground rules for the use of the car. These rules, perhaps in the form of a contract, should include restrictions on the number of friends in the car, circumscribed radio use, where and how the car may be used, and curfew times. Curtailment of the right to drive should be spelled out.
  2. Ban cell phone use. Parents should emphasize that cell phones must be turned off and unavailable while the teen is driving. (It’s the law in Massachusetts and other states, but just because it’s the law doesn’t mean it won’t happen, so reinforce the ban.)
  3. Prohibit drinking and driving. Parents should emphasize that there are no exceptions to this ironclad rule.
  4. Keep distractions to a minimum. This includes talking with friends, eating, and playing with the radio/audio system.
  5. Practice defensive driving. Techniques include maintaining a safe distance from cars ahead of the driver, closely monitoring traffic in adjacent lanes, and taking a defensive driving class.
  6. Follow the speed limit. Research indicates that high driving speed is a significant contributor to fatal teen accidents.
  7. Choose a safe auto for your teen. Autos with excellent crash safety records and the latest safety equipment, including airbags and electronic stability control, could reduce your teen’s chances of being injured in an auto accident.

Copyright 2015  International Risk Management Institute, Inc.

Read Other Blog Posts

Be Ready for Severe Winter Weather Snowstorms, Ice, and Extreme Cold

Be Ready for Severe Winter Weather: Snowstorms, Ice, and Extreme Cold

Severe winter storms can bring heavy snow, ice, and extreme cold. Learn how to prepare your home, protect your vehicle, prevent frozen pipes and power outages, and take practical steps to keep your family safe during harsh winter weather.
Read more
Chimney

Chimney Maintenance Is Essential

A well-maintained chimney is essential for keeping your home safe, as neglected chimneys are a leading cause of fireplace-related fires and carbon monoxide issues. With an estimated 20,000 chimney fires occurring each year in the U.S., routine inspections and cleanings play a critical role in reducing creosote buildup and preventing costly damage. By making chimney care part of your annual home-maintenance plan, you’ll protect your property and ensure your fireplace operates safely all season long.
Read more
Woman buying a car

Shopping for a Safe Vehicle

When shopping for a new vehicle, safety should be a top consideration. This brief guide outlines key safety features—from crash protection to advanced driver assistance systems—and explains how they can impact your insurance costs. Understanding these factors can help you make a smarter, more informed purchase.
Read more
Operating Under the Influence (OUI) Will Cost You Money

Operating Under the Influence (OUI) Will Cost You Money

An Operating Under the Influence (OUI) conviction is more than a legal problem; it’s a financial disaster. Between fines, court fees, license costs, higher insurance premiums, towing, and lost wages, one mistake can cost you between $11,000 and $30,000. The best way to save? Don’t drink and drive.
Read more
Fresh Look at Personal Insurance SMM

A New Year, A Fresh Look at Your Protection

A new year is the perfect time to review your insurance and personal risk management. Life changes, rising costs, and growing responsibilities can all affect your coverage needs. A quick annual check can help ensure that you and what matters most are properly protected.
Read more
Car side-view

How Deductibles Affect Auto Insurance Premiums

Learn how your auto insurance deductible impacts both your premium and your protection. Choosing the right deductible can help you balance monthly costs with what you would pay out of pocket if an accident or covered claim occurs, giving you better control over your coverage and budget.
Read more
Murphy Insurance Agency Supporting Local Charities Through Employee Generosity

Murphy Insurance Agency Supporting Local Charities Through Teamwork

Murphy Insurance proudly supports local charities making a meaningful impact across our communities. Through agency contributions, employee generosity, volunteer efforts, and seasonal drives, we help provide comfort, care, and essential resources to families in need.
Read more
Dennis Blog

The Murphy Insurance Difference

As a third-generation, family-owned agency, Murphy Insurance has always believed insurance should be personal. From thoughtful guidance and access to top-rated carriers to hands-on support when it matters most, we are committed to protecting the families and businesses we serve. Built on trust since 1937, our focus remains on long-term relationships, honest advice, and helping our clients feel confident at every stage of life.
Read more
Keyhole

Make Home Security A Top Priority

Keeping your home and family safe should be one of your top priorities. Specifically, it’s important to protect your household from the risk of invasion. Fortunately, there are several things that you can do to bolster the security of your home. Consider these top security measures.
Read more
PreviousNext

Visit Our Auto Insurance Page

Auto Insurance

At Murphy Insurance, we are here to assist you in obtaining the appropriate auto insurance. Choosing the appropriate auto insurance coverage can be overwhelming. Every insurance company has its unique offerings, making it challenging to compare options effectively. That’s where we shine. We simplify the process by helping you evaluate provider and policy choices, seek out discounts, and optimize your car insurance within your budget constraints. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with peace of mind, knowing that you and your loved ones are well-protected. Visit our auto insurance page to learn more.