How to Make Your Teenager a Safer Driver

If you have a teenager at home, you need to read this! As a parent, we understand how conflicting it feels when your teen starts to drive. We’ve shared ways you can help them become safe drivers.

There are so many pros and cons that come along with having a teenage driver; you want them to have their independence but also want to make sure they're safe. The best thing you can do is prepare your teen with information and experience.

We’ve shared some tips that can help. Believe us; it’s possible to make your teenager a safer driver!

Talk Constantly About Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is deadly, and, even though teens are aware of the dangers of driving while distracted, they still do it. Make sure you inform them of the changes (January 1, 2019) to what is considered ‘distracted driving’ in Ontario. Also, ensure you never text and drive while you’re behind the wheel – you must be the example.

Ontario G1 License Restrictions

Remember that there are license restrictions in Ontario when it comes to driving:

You must maintain a blood alcohol level of zero.
A fully licensed driver with a blood alcohol level below 0.5% and four years minimum driving experience must be in the passenger seat.
You may not have more passengers in the vehicle than there are seat belts.
You are prohibited from driving on 400 highways and high-speed expressways.
You are only permitted to drive between 5:00 a.m. through midnight.

Drive With Them – and Often

As soon as your teenager gets their G1, you should try to be in the car with them as often as possible. Having someone supervise their driving will help build their confidence and providing constructive feedback is invaluable to their development.

Limit the Number of Passengers

You should set limits to the number of passengers your teenager is permitted in the car. The more people in the car, the more distractions there will be.

Explain Why Speed Limits + Seatbelts Are Important

There are speed limits for a reason; speed kills. Besides avoiding speeding tickets, new drivers need to understand the dangers of speeding. Did you know that in 2018, 34 people died because of not wearing a seatbelt (as reported by the Ontario Provincial Police) Again, your child will mirror what you do, so make sure you always wear your seatbelt and observe speed limits.

We hope you've found these tips insightful! We wish you all the best in helping your teenager become a safer driver.

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