Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Tips for Nervous Parents of New Drivers

Nationwide, car accidents are the leading cause of death for young adults between the ages of 15 to 20.  State patrol troopers across the country are recommending that young drivers take driving courses.  The average $300 it costs for the class will more than make up for the expenses incurred in the first accident and could even prevent it.  The following are a few tips for parents who want to keep an eye out for their children and make sure they don't become the latest sad statistic.

-Keep driving sessions short but frequent, about 15-20 minutes each day, slowly working up to an hour.
-Lead by example.  Examine your own driving habits to see if there is anything that can be corrected.
-Try not to burden your child with too many instructions at once.  It will only confuse them.
-Try to give directions one at a time, and not all at once.
-Try not to criticize teens while they are driving.  Talk to them when they are no longer behind the wheel.
-Discourage eating, drinking and talking on cell phones while they are driving.
-Urge your children not to take unnecessary risks, whatever the situation.