Scientists know that brain development in teenagers is very different than brain structure in adults. Teenagers still have brains that are developing, which can make it harder for them to evaluate the long-term consequences of their actions. It is one reason why teens are not allowed to drink until they are older, since they need the extra time to grow and accumulate experience to ensure they can handle alcohol safely.
Teen drivers can fall prey to peer pressure or inexperience, which can contribute to car accidents. If you have a teen driver in Homestead or anywhere in South Florida, you may want to talk to them about safe driving. A safe driving plan can include:
1) A written component
Develop a safe driving plan together. A safe driving plan is a written agreement which reminds your teen about the safe driving practices you expect and puts in place consequences in case your teen driver acts erratically or unsafely behind the wheel.
If your teen is going on a trip, it is especially important to put together a plan to keep them safe as they head to their destination.
2) A schedule
Whether your teen is going on a trip or just getting car privileges, have a schedule set up. For everyday driving, this may include when your teen is allowed to drive. At first, for example, you may want to limit your teen’s driving hours to daytime or avoid having them drive during rush hour.
If your teen is headed on a road trip, your schedule should include rest stops and limits on how long your teen drives before resting. This can help prevent fatigued driving. You may also want to set up check-in times to ensure your child checks in with you en route.
3) A discussion about car dangers
Your safe driving plan should include many discussions about safe driving. For example, you will want to discourage your child from multitasking or trying to accomplish multiple things while driving. Distracted driving is a key cause of Homestead car accidents and truck accidents.
4) Support in adapting the car
Work with your teen to adjust the mirrors, climate controls, and seat. Make sure they know how these things operate and encourage them to adjust to the car to their specifications before they get behind the wheel. Trying to change things mid trip or being uncomfortable or losing visibility because of a poorly adjusted mirror can lead to distraction or an accident.
If your teen has been involved in a traffic accident and you feel that your child was the victim of someone’s negligence or recklessness, contact Flaxman Law Group at 1-866-352-9626 (1-866-FLAXMAN) for a free accident consultation with a Homestead car accident attorney.