Parents Hold the Keys to Safe Teen Driving
Parents Hold the Keys to Safe Teen Driving
By info@goldenwheeldriving.com / January 24, 2025
Did you know that parents are one of the biggest influences on their teens' driving habits? As primary role models, parents play a critical part in shaping how their teens view driving, safety, and responsibility on the road. While having these conversations isn’t always easy, there’s good news: most teens are open to learning from their parents.
According to a recent Parent/Teen Driving Survey conducted by Travelers Insurance, a whopping 96% of teens reported having safe driving conversations with their parents. This is an encouraging statistic, especially compared to the percentage of teens who’ve discussed other critical topics like safe sex, drugs, or bullying with their parents. The survey clearly shows that teens benefit greatly when parents take the time to talk about driving rules and the dangers of the road.
It’s vital for parents and teens to establish clear, consistent rules and discuss the consequences of unsafe driving. The survey also highlights an interesting trend: teens who view their parents as poor driving role models are more likely to be involved in multiple accidents—24% compared to just 10% of teens with parents who are good role models behind the wheel.
The challenge for many parents is figuring out how to start the conversation and keep their teens engaged. Interestingly, younger teens are more receptive to discussions about driving safety than older teens. The survey found that 67% of 16-year-olds are willing to talk about safe driving compared to only 29% of 18-year-olds. Starting early can make all the difference.
Here are some practical tips for parents to become better role models and guides for their teen drivers:
1. PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT
Help your teen gain as much driving experience as possible in a variety of situations and conditions. This practice will build their confidence and improve their skills behind the wheel.
2. HAVE THE TALK
Make time to have an open and honest discussion about safe driving. Highlight the dangers of speeding, distracted driving, and other risky behaviors, and explain the serious consequences they carry.
3. SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE
Tell your teen about your own driving experiences, including any mistakes you’ve made and the lessons you’ve learned. Real-life stories can help your teen understand the importance of staying safe on the road.
4. SET CLEAR RULES
Teens have the highest crash rates, so it’s essential to set firm rules and guidelines for them to follow. For example, always know where they’re going, who they’re with, and when they’ll be home.
5. STAY INVOLVED
Driving is a privilege, not a right. New drivers lack the experience needed to handle all situations on the road. Stay engaged by checking in regularly and reinforcing the importance of responsible driving.
To help parents and teens stay on the same page, Travelers Insurance and the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute have developed the Let’s Talk Safety Parent/Teen Safe Driving Coaching Guide. This resource provides practical tips for starting conversations about driving safety, teaching teens about the risks of speeding and distracted driving, and creating a customized parent/teen driving contract.
Start the conversation today and give your teen the tools they need to stay safe on the road.
