5 Tips For Parents on Teaching Your Teenager to Drive

By Steve Horning

So your teenager wants to drive? They can hardly wait and it has become so important that basically this is all they think about. Consider these 5 tips when your teenager wants to learn to drive.

1. Set a Good Example - Children learn by imitating their parents. They start by tying their shoes to cutting the grass. They also adopt parent's attitudes. If you are always speeding and slow down when you see a police officer, then they will do the same. If you yell and curse at someone for being in the

wrong lane, they will follow. Do you roll through a stop sign or accelerate when you see a yellow light? Expect your teenager to do the same. Keep good driving habits and set the example for your teenager.

2. Be Involved - Driver education courses are wonderful, however, they are no substitute for maturity and experience. In the State of Pennsylvania, a six-month waiting period and 50 hours behind the wheel driving experience is required prior to taking the test for their driver's license. This is a great opportunity for the parent to be involved.

3. Start Out Simple - When you are teaching your teenager to drive, you want to start out slow so they are not afraid or intimated. Sure, they watched you drive many times, but it is different now that they are behind the wheel. Go to a parking lot or a low traffic area. After you have practiced this several

times and they feel comfortable, then work your way into heavier traffic.

4. Drive In All Situations - When your teenager is learning, you don't want them to just drive in good weather. Let your teen experience all kinds of situations such as rain, ice, snow and wind. Take them to a parking lot and have them practice driving in snow. Doing this, your teenager will be prepared for all

kinds of situations.

5. Practice Regularly - There is no such thing as too much practice. Going out several times a week will allow your teenager to experience everything. Make it a family event where everyone is involved. Have your teen drive with both parents if available.

With these tips, your teenager will be on their way to a fun and safe driving experience.

Want to learn more safe driving tips for teenagers? Visit Steve Horning Insurance for more information. Steve Horning, CPCU is a licensed insurance agent in the State of Pennsylvania. He provides auto, home, life and health insurance to York Pa and the surrounding areas. Visit http://www.SteveHorning.com for more information and a quote today!