Teenagers somehow seem to think they are indestructible. However, teenage drivers have become statistically recognized as having the highest death rate due to car accidents within the United States. Therefore, how do parents know when the "right" time is to hand over the keys? In addition to this, how can they ensure their teen will practice safe driving after getting a license?

First of all, sixteen is an early age for most to be operating a motor vehicle responsibly. Those parents who have tossed the keys over too early and have experienced the reality of this decision should have no problem agreeing with this statement. Therefore, in order to ensure that our teenagers are driving safely, it is imperative that every parent is confident in their decision on when to allow their child to begin driving.

Once this decision has been made, a parent must become involved in the learning process. Judgment of speed and direction are two main issues that inexperienced drivers must master, not to mention blind spots and the general rules of the road. However, a teen that has passed his or her license test and demonstrates the ability to successfully operate a vehicle safely, is not necessarily experienced. It is even more important that the parents remain involved after handing over the keys. Watch where and how your teenager is driving. Keep an eye on the mileage of the car. Running local errands shouldn't take more than an hour or use a quarter of a tank. For example, if you notice Johnny going thirty miles an hour as he is pulling up into the driveway or if he is unable to hear you screaming at him as his car speakers blast the latest tunes, there might be a problem.

Keep in mind that a common misconception of teens is that a license equals freedom. Parents, on the other hand, should view a license as a potential threat to their child's life. The reality of the situation is that when parents surrender the car keys, they could possibly be giving their child a deadly weapon. Therefore, ease your teenager into freedom through baby steps. Supervise your teenager while driving, limit the availability of the car, and ensure your teenager understands that driving is a privilege, not a right.

Learn more about this author, Jaime Brunelle.
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