Getting a driver’s license is an exciting moment for many teens, but most teens get their licenses after only a few hours of instruction. Even new drivers who do attend driver education classes often get only limited one on one time with a professional instructor. In group classes, teens may only get limited time behind the wheel of a car for solid practice.
There are many signs that your teen may need more driving instruction. If your teen is not confident behind the wheel of a car, if their insurance rates are high, or if they have been in fender benders or close calls, these are all signs that additional training and education may be beneficial.
Signing your teen up for defensive driving classes is a smart move. If possible, defensive driving classes can help your teen in many ways:
- They can build confidence: Teenagers often find it scary to be behind the wheel of a car—even if they also find the experience exciting. Defensive driving courses give teens more time on the road practicing as well as defensive driving skills which can make them feel more in control.
- They can teach good habits early on: The first few months and years of a new driver’s experience shape ongoing habits. A professional instructor can help address any bad habits—such as distraction—early on and can help build good habits. Defensive driving, including always thinking a few moves ahead, can be a good habit to instill early on for years of safer driving.
- They help your teen go over the basics: Learning the rules once in driver’s education class may not be enough to really help your teen absorb all they need to know. Driver’s education can be an “information overwhelm” situation where a young driver misses some lessons. Defensive driving gives your teen a chance to review the basics and to really reinforce driving rules.
- They help with risk management: Many parents are worried about the risks of car accidents in Hollywood or their community. Young drivers, however, do not always have the experience to take risk seriously. Defensive driving classes examine the dangers of drunk driving, distracted driving, and other risky behaviors. It also shows young drivers how to avoid some of these risks.
- They can help with insurance costs: Young drivers have some of the highest insurance rates of all drivers. Carriers simply see them as a bigger risk. Some companies do offer discounts to teens who take additional driving instruction or defensive driving classes. Contact your insurer before taking an additional class to find out how the instruction could help with insurance premiums. The savings could offset some of the cost of the classes.
If your teen has been injured in a car crash in Hollywood, Homestead, Miami, or any surrounding areas, contact Flaxman Law Group at 1-866-352-9626 (1-866-FLAXMAN) for a free accident consultation. Our legal team has more than 60 years of combined experience and we can help you understand whether you have a legal claim after a serious injury.