Is your child taking the car to school? Here’s what you should know.
Your growing child may be all too excited about the possibility of driving. As a parent, it can be a scary time when your child becomes old enough to drive. Even though you teach them good habits, set the right example, and enroll them in great driving classes, there’s no assurance that they’ll always be a perfect driver. If your child is eager to take the family car to school, be aware of these common perils.
- Distracted Driving
Teens are one of the worst offenders for distracted driving. Growing up around technology means that they are more reliant on it. Although this can generally help them in life, there should be no tech used behind the wheel. Texting, scrolling through social media, chatting with friends, fiddling with the radio, eating, and drinking are considered to be distractions when driving. If your child isn’t yet confident at eliminating distractions, taking the car to school could spell trouble.
- Teen Driving Restrictions
Every licensed driver under the age of 18 is subject to provisional restrictions. For the first 12 months, a licensed parent or guardian, an instructor, or another licensed driver who is at least 25 years old must accompany a driver during the following situations:
- Carrying passengers who are 20 years old or younger
- Driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
Additionally, drivers younger than 18 cannot use electronic communication devices while driving. That means no using cell phones to text or talk — even in hands-free mode. An exception to this is if the teen is carrying a signed note at all times.
- Lack of Confidence
Your teen may be eager to drive to school, but he or she may need to gain their confidence on the roads before they are let loose with the wheel. Talk to them about what situations they feel comfortable with (i.e. driving their siblings, not their friends) and commit to pledges that he or she can keep. For example, ensure they don’t drive more than one friend at a time or take detours.
You deserve an auto insurance policy that works for you and your teen. For more information about how we can provide quality protection, contact Lou Aggetta Insurance Agency in Pleasant Hill, California today.