Driving a car is a rite of passage and one of the greatest privileges we have as adults. It is also one flanked with responsibilities. Learning how to drive doesn’t have to be a grueling task, it can be great fun. Cars not only get us from “Point A” to “Point B” but they also say lots about our style and character. However, every driver should always remember that they are wielding a potential weapon when they drive.
Below is vital information every teen driver should know before they get behind the wheel of a car.
- Careless Driving - Anytime you are not fully focused on the road, your driving can turn into careless driving. This is magnified when you are an inexperienced driver. This too means that you can easily turn your vehicle into a weapon. An average car can weigh 4,009 pounds and make an impact in an accident a scary realization for you, other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
- Texting - It seems like a difficult task to put your smartphone away since we live on them 24/7. However, texting has no business happening while operating a vehicle. Luckily, newer vehicles have smartphone connections that aid in keeping drivers hands-free, but as a new driver, you truly should only use this feature for emergencies. Many states have also passed “Hands-Free” Laws making it illegal to hold your cell phone while you are driving. Check the laws in the state you live in to make sure you are abiding by them.
- Too Fast, Too Furious - Every new driver gets a rush of adrenaline when first driving a vehicle, but that rush should never override your better judgment. Joy rides are fun with friends, but speeding is dangerous and no matter what anyone says, or any games or movies you have watched you are taking a huge risk when speeding. Speeding can have very serious consequences that can ding your driving record, cause an accident that increases insurance costs, to being fined or even worse, costing lives.
- Alcohol or Drugs - There is no excuse to ever get behind a wheel of a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Make a promise to yourself and be proactive by designating a sober driver or call a cab or Uber.
- Hit and Run - Unfortunately, accidents do happen, even when we are on our best behaviors. With that said, never leave an accident. 1. Careless Driving - Anytime you are not fully focused on the road, your driving can turn into careless driving, and because you are inexperienced, this heightens. What could be a minor ding can turn into a bigger issue if you feel the urge to flee and follow through. You need to stay, exchange information, call your parents, and do your best to remain calm. Speak to your parents about accidents and what to do in those situations so you have an open dialogue with them.
Hopefully, this information will equip you and your teen to be safer behind the wheel of a car. If you need help purchasing a vehicle, contact me today!
