A new driver is a worrisome addition to any home. You wonder if you can trust him or her to make the right decisions. It all comes down to the way you teach your teen how to drive. A combination of methods is important. And, most importantly, practice good habits yourself. They are constantly monitoring how you act, react, and handle the road. Are you providing your teen with enough driving knowledge?

Education Starts with Laws

When teaching a teen to drive, the first step is always to ensure they understand the laws in your state. Most students must obtain a temporary driver’s permit to begin entering the road. However, they need to understand local traffic laws. Here are a few questions to consider:

  • Do you commonly go over the speed limit? Even if it is just a few miles over?
  • Do you stop fully at a stop sign?
  • Do you find yourself not obeying turn signal use requirements?

These laws are important. They keep drivers safe on the road. If you do not practice them, your teen will not either.

Getting onto the Road

The next step is to help your teen with the actual application of driving. Before you head out on the road, consider virtual reality or augmented video. Some driving schools offer this. They experience near real-world conditions in a simulation. This can help individuals to gain some skills before they hit the road.

In all cases, start in a parking lot. Allow the student to ease behind the wheel to make a few turns. Practice stopping and using the gas properly. Then, head out onto the road. Choose a road without any traffic. This can help keep your driver safe. It also allows them to build confidence. From there, work on building up skills.

Here are a few more questions to consider:

  • What do you do behind the wheel? Do you change the radio or check your phone?
  • Do you treat other drivers with respect?
  • Do you drive a safe distance away from the car in front of you?
  • Do you listen to what is happening around you?
  • Do you take driving seriously?

In some situations, it is easy to make these mistakes.

You have skills. You have experience. But, your teen does not. He or she needs to know what responsible driving is. And, they need to understand auto insurance. You do not want your teen to have to file a car insurance claim. However, it may happen. Do what you can in the meantime to prevent any accidents.