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We both raised teenagers. We understand that there is nothing more terrifying than the idea of your kid piloting a few thousand pounds of steel at up to 65 mph.
Well, here's some good news. While we can't assure you that your teen won't back the family wagon into your local wetlands, we can help make it less likely. Our Car Talk Teen Driving Area has tips for both you and your teen, to stack the odds in your favor. Here's hoping they help!
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Is there anything more fun than getting behind the wheel for the first time? Hardly!
We understand you're excited to start driving. And why not? Finally, you won't have to be embarrassed by having mom shuttle you around to sports practice, or, worse, on a date.
But, we have some bad news for you. Teens are prone to be reckless, daring and out to impress a date. How do we know this? We were teens once. A long, long, long time ago.
Our Car Talk Teen Driver Area is our way to share a bunch of hints and tips we think you might actually find useful. Plus, it just might help you arrive at college in your car and not in a motorized wheelchair.
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satisficer
Great topic! Yes, the statistics may be discouraging but certainly not hopeless. I had an accident-free trip through teenager-hood, and can remember two solid reasons: First, I had two parents who were good and skillful drivers themselves, and who set a good example for me. They didn't take their anger out on the road and it would be hard to imagine them phoning while driving. They also let me know, in an understated but obvious way, that they expected me to be a good driver too, and if they ever found out I wasn't -- good bye keys. Second, I had an excellent high school Driver's Ed course run by our football coach, who looked like a teacher of Marine Drill Sergeants. He let us know driving was like sports -- having accidents, impulsive decision-making, and Driving (or doing much else) While Demented were not at all good ideas. Again, he was a credible example for us and we sure didn't want to (gulp) upset him. I am sure he saved some lives, he gave us some good habits, and I can't remember our school members having serious accidents. If you don't have access to such a course at your school, a good professional driving school could be a great investment for your teens (you might find one in the phone directory or through a local car club). If people learn the limitations of their machinery, and that you can use your brainpower while driving, they may do better. Few things are certain, but these two things -- giving your kids a good example and a good foundational driving education -- might help you. Good luck.