The obvious way to make sure that your teen drives safely is to ride shotgun with them everywhere. But if (for some bizarre reason) that solution won't work for you and your teen, here are a few more suggestions that might help keep them on the straight and narrow when you can't be there to play play co-pilot.

First, channel the fear. We sometimes forget that despite shows of bravado, most teens are terrified when they first start driving. As parents or guardians, you can't be afraid to use this fear in your favor! Start early, if possible...preferably somewhere around their 13th birthday. Point out bad drivers doing unsafe things on the road, tell them cautionary tales of licenses being revoked and first cars being totaled or even show them graphic footage of wrecks caused by inattentive teens.

Next, tighten the purse strings. We all know now that cell phones and other hand-held devices are extremely dangerous distractions for drivers. And we also know who pays those bills for teens. So make sure your teen understands that you expect them to drive with their devices off...and then test them. Dial their number when you know they're driving or send them a text once they've taken the wheel. Sure, it smacks of entrapment, but they'll be less inclined to answer their cell if they think it might be you screaming "You are soooo BUSTED!"

Though it might seem extreme, it is also a good idea to completely remove the back seat of your teen's vehicle. This unexpected move will limit the number of friends they can cram into their car and eliminate any possible distractions that unruly passengers are sure to cause. If seat removal isn't an option, you could just buy teen an unbelievably ugly car. Something so potentially embarrassing that your teenager will actually prefer to bum a ride from their friends or even utilize public transportation rather than to be seen in the piece of crap you have provided for them. Problem solved!

In all seriousness, once your teen is behind the wheel, there is really only one way to have peace of mind.

Simply trust them.

Learn more about this author, J. Audet.
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!