Protecting Drivers Affected by Teen Driving Accidents
We all remember how exciting it was the first time we got behind the wheel of a car. But, we also know how scary that same moment can be as parents. Teenage drivers are new drivers, and do not yet have years of driving experience under different conditions. As a group, teenage drivers are statistically more likely to cause traffic collisions. The law firm of Sussman & Simcox is here to represent you if any member of your family was injured in a teen car accident in the Gaithersburg, MD area. As qualified and experienced lawyers involved in many teen driver accidents, our team can help if you have been a victim in one of these accidents.
No parent would let their teenager behind the wheel if they weren’t sure they were ready to drive, but even then, it can be a nerve-wracking situation. Our team has prepared some tips to help prevent teen driving accidents. We recommend you spend a few moments going over them with your teenager. Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions, or you or your child have been involved in a teen driving accident.
Teen Driving Tips for Avoiding Accidents
Getting behind the wheel for the first time can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re driving in Bethesda, Clarksburg, Germantown, Hagerstown, or Rockville, MD, practicing safe driving tips can lower your risk of being involved in an automobile accident. We know it’s not possible to prevent all instances of teen accidents but educating the teens in your life is an excellent place to start. Talk with your teenager about taking the following steps to improve the safety of their driving habits:
- Always wear a seatbelt – Make sure your teenager is in the habit of always wearing their seatbelt. It’s equally crucial for all passengers to wear their seatbelts. Wearing a seatbelt is one of the most effective safety measures anyone can take while driving or riding in a vehicle, and it’s also required by law.
- Get plenty of supervised driving time – Let your teenager know you’re always available to supervise as they practice driving. Practice time goes a long way in ensuring they’re ready to hit the road on their own. Even once your teenager has obtained a license, there is still plenty to learn. As a parent, you should continue to watch and provide guidance to a new driver.
- Limit number of passengers – Set rules about limiting the number of passengers in their vehicle when they’re driving. New drivers need to be able to focus, and passengers can make doing so a challenge. Teach your child it’s alright for them to set rules for their friends in the car. This will help minimize distractions.
- Don’t drive under the influence – This might seem obvious, but teenagers don’t always think clearly. Driving under the influence is an “absolute no” for any driver of any age. Make sure your teenager knows they should never get behind the wheel if they’ve consumed drugs or alcohol, and should never ride with a driver who may be impaired.
- Be prepared for bad weather – This is an important one for Maryland drivers, as our region sees snow, rain, fog, and other weather challenges. Teach your child the best methods to navigate dangerous roads, so when they encounter poor conditions when alone, they’ll know what to do.
- Don’t use cell phones – This should be a rule every driver follows no matter their age. Cell phones should be reserved for emergencies on the road. Your teenager should not be carrying on a phone call, texting, checking social media, or finding another song on Spotify while behind the wheel. Talk to your teenager about refraining from using their cell phone while driving, and teach them to put it away to resist temptation. Certain apps allow you to put your phone on a restricted mode while driving.
