If you have a teenager, you’re already worried about them driving. With so many kids using smartphones today, the odds of getting into an accident as a result of texting and driving are greater than ever before. And, while adults can be just as guilty, teenagers tend to cater to the whims of their friends and their social media accounts. As a parent, how do you combat this serious problem so your teen stays safe? Read on to learn more.
Talk to Your Teens About Texting and Driving
First and foremost, you should talk to your teenager about the dangers of texting and driving. Show them statistics related to texting accidents, and let them know you need them to focus on the road. Discuss things like putting their phone on mute or turning off Bluetooth while they drive. Teach them good habits that include wearing their seatbelt and obeying the speed limit. And most importantly, make sure you set a good example for your teenager. Never take phone calls (unless it’s an emergency) or text while you’re behind the wheel.
Know the Law
More and more states are becoming strict about texting and driving laws. In fact, some states will write you a ticket even if you’re just looking at your phone. These laws are passed to discourage drivers from texting while driving and help reduce the number of accidents. Some texting and driving accidents can be fatal, so these laws are put in place for everyone’s safety. Make sure you know what the law is in your state, and relay that information to your teen. Let them know that even if they don’t get into an accident, they can be pulled over and ticketed, which can affect their driving record and cost them money.
Band Together with Your Community
If you have friends who are parents of teens, come together to talk about how you can work together as a community to reduce teen texting and driving. In many cases, ticketing teenagers is simply not enough to keep them from fiddling with their phone when behind the wheel. Look for technology that discourages teens from using their phone while they drive, and implement some strict rules of your own that will give them serious consequences if they’re caught. Between the community and yourselves as parents, you can help to combat teen texting and driving for a safer experience for everyone.
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