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

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
Kitchen faucet

Preventing Water Damage: What Homeowners Need to Know

One of the most common causes of water damage within your home is often preventable. With this in mind, be sure to follow this guidance to keep water damage from wreaking havoc on your home (and your wallet).
Read more
Driver and passenger

Don’t Drink and Drive

Driving while under the influence is not only dangerous for the impaired driver; passengers, other motorists and pedestrians are put at serious risk, too. That’s why it’s important to avoid getting behind the wheel after drinking too much. One drink can change your night — one decision can change a life. Choose wisely. Don’t drink and drive. Read more about guidance on preventing drinking and driving.
Read more
10 Tips for Holiday Safety

10 Ways to Stay Safe and Protected This Holiday Season

The holidays are a time for joy, gatherings, and festive décor—but a few simple precautions can make all the difference. From checking your lights and keeping walkways clear, to kitchen safety, winter preparedness, and looking out for pets, these ten tips help you enjoy the season safely and stress-free. Make this holiday your safest yet!
Read more
10 Business Holiday Safety Tips

10 Ways to Keep Your Business Safe and Running Smoothly This Holiday Season

The holiday season brings extra demands for businesses of all kinds. From increased traffic and seasonal staffing to year-end projects, it’s a busy time for operations. Here are ten practical tips to help keep your workplace safe, employees supported, and your business running smoothly through the season.
Read more
Terrific Thanksgiving and Holiday Travel Tips

Terrific Thanksgiving and Holiday Travel Tips

Holiday travel is one of the busiest times of the year, and a little preparation can make all the difference. From planning your route and preparing your vehicle to staying alert, flying smart, and protecting your home, these simple tips can help you enjoy a safer, smoother trip this Thanksgiving and holiday season.
Read more
Thanksgiving Kitchen Safety Tips to Keep Your Holiday Safe and Stress-Free

Thanksgiving Kitchen Safety Tips to Keep Your Holiday Safe and Stress-Free

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and celebration, but it is also the leading day for home cooking fires. Our Thanksgiving Kitchen Safety Guide shares simple tips to keep your kitchen safe, from staying focused at the stove to deep frying a turkey safely. Make this year’s holiday warm, joyful, and worry free.
Read more
Driver 1200 (1)

On the Road Alone: Essential Safety Tips for Long Solo Drives

Heading out on a long drive alone can be empowering, but it also calls for a little extra preparation. From planning safe rest stops to staying aware of your surroundings, these essential tips will help you feel confident and secure on every mile of your solo journey.
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.