Summer Holidays are here, and for some teenagers, this is the time to learn how to drive.
While the lawful age for new drivers is 18 years, a number of young teenagers (as early as 14 years old) start learning as soon as they have access to a car.
This can be quite dangerous because statistically, teen drivers account for more driving-related accidents than any other group. However, by carefully following a few simple rules, you can ensure that your teenager is safe and builds a good driving record in the process.
Experience is Key
Inexperience is the leading cause of teen driving-related deaths. In fact, car crashes are one of the leading causes of death for teenagers all over the world.
Help your teen to practice under supervision as much as possible, to gain experience in different situations and road conditions. The more practice they get before they receive their license, the better skilled they will be.
Emphasize the NO Mobile Phone Rule
Using a cell phone while driving has shown to be equivalent to drunk driving, as they both slow down the reflexes. This applies even when using a hands-free phone.
Educate your teenagers on this and ensure that they keep their phones away while they drive, especially as the Nigerian government prohibits the use of phones while driving.
Set a Good Example
Your teenager cannot take your advice seriously if you are consulting your phone, texting, and otherwise engaging in other dangerous driver behaviors.
If you want them to practice safe driving, make it your priority as well. Avoid using your phone, going over the speed limit, and, most importantly, drinking while driving.
Don’t Forget About Security
Being a responsible driver and car owner also means being particularly attentive to security issues. Remind your teen to avoid exposing valuable items, such as laptops or mobile phones, while running errands. Also, let them know never to leave the car unattended and running, as it serves as an invitation to theft.
Installing an efficient tracking solution is imperative. A tracking solution like Tikon Basic ensures that you are in total control of your car’s whereabouts – reducing the chances of car theft and giving you a better chance of recovery in any event of car theft.
The Tikon Basic solution provides instant information about the location of your vehicle, its movement history, engine hours and so much more.
These simple tips can help your teen drivers become safer and more responsible. Remember that good habits require repetition and allowing your teen to practice as much as possible will help them acquire safe driver techniques which, with time, will seem easy and natural.