Teenagers are at a critical time in their lives, and getting a driver's license means independence, though most teenagers are not ready to handle the responsibilities that come with a driver's license. They still need to be monitored by the parent or guardian, and must not be left to drive alone, even though they may be quite competent. All newly qualified drivers should not be left to drive alone, but an experienced driver should accompany him/her.

A few guidelines should be followed after your teenager becomes a licensed driver:

- Parents should always monitor their child's driving, and see to it that they are steadily
improving and making good progress on the roads.

- Parents should make their children sign a contract that states that the teenager should
not drink and drive, or partake in negligent driving that endangers lives.

- Parents should sit the teenager down , and have a conversation about the dangers of
negligence on the roads, and show them first hand pictures of the consequences that
occur with reckless driving.

- Parents should not rush in and buy their child a car especially if it is a fast car, that
is known to cause a lot of accidents.

- Teenagers should always carry their license identification whenever they drive, and should
still be accompanied by the parent for at least six months.

- Teenage drivers should always know the importance of wearing a seat belt.

- Speeding tickets are always annoying to get, but when a teenager gets one they should pay
the ticket back themselves. Parents should not bail them out the easy way, as they need to
to stick to the speed limit, in order to avoid further damages.

- Parents should take out car insurance for their teenagers once they start driving, even though this may be a little expensive.

- Teenage drivers should accept responsibility for their actions, and not pass the blame onto
the next party.

- Teenage drivers should learn Cardiac Pulmonary Resusitation as this could save a life if
involved in an accident.

- Parents should have acurfew time for their kids as night driving is more risky and
dangerous.

Learn more about this author, Das Govind.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Driver safety: How to encourage teens to drive safely?
We want to hear your view. Write now!