What Can We Do? Parents play a crucial role in the proper instruction and training of their new young drivers. What many parents oftentimes fail to realize is that quality one-on-one time, both in and out of the car, can make all the difference when it comes to teaching teens about safe driving. If you are a parent of a teenage driver, consider these simple steps towards a better driving experience with your child: Put down your phone. Even if you aren’t the one behind the wheel, it is incredibly important that you are one hundred percent invested in the process of teaching your teen to drive. If you are a distracted passenger, your teen may easily become a distracted driver. After all, your children look to you as a role model for everything in life, safe driving included. This means that it is highly imperative to model safe driving habits when you are the one operating the vehicle as well. Speak kindly. Your kids are trying their best, so do your best not to scold them when they are driving, as that in itself becomes a distraction. Driving for the first time can be a stressful experience for everyone involved. Try not to make things worse by raising your voice or over communicating. Let your teen learn by doing. They will be much more receptive to your guidance if you are a quiet observer who only speaks when absolutely necessary, and one who speaks helpful, constructive words. Spend time doing other things. All too often, parents of new drivers get wrapped up in trying to get the mandatory road hours logged, the manuals read, or the tests done. Sometimes it is helpful to just take a break. Spend some time with your teen doing something they enjoy in order to give you both a break from the new driver stress. Make sure your teen feels valued, listened to, and respected off the road: this will give them more confidence, self-assurance, and the ability to focus while on the road. We Can Help With over twenty years of experience, Simon Law Group would like to earn your trust as a local personal injury lawyer. We are here to support you in getting the money you need to take care of yourself (and/or your loved ones) after an accident. If you have any questions, would like to discuss your case, or are wondering what you could potentially expect from your personal injury claim settlement, feel free to contact us at (480)-745-2450 to schedule your free consultation. And remember, experience matters!]]>