Personal Safety for Teen Drivers

Parents can have a big hand in teaching teens about safety on the road. Here are a few potential driving situations parents should make their teens aware of when it's time for them to hit the road solo:

Back away from possible road rage: The cautious habits of a new driver may inadvertently annoy others, who may yell, tailgate or act in a threatening manner. Aside from causing a dangerous distraction, these encounters can quickly escalate.

The best reaction is to ignore the heated driver and seek distance, says James Solomon, director of training for defensive driving at the National Safety Council in Itasca, Illinois.

"Pull over when it's safe to do so, and wait for the offender to get a good distance ahead of you," he says. "Don't pull out as soon as they pass you; they're likely to jam on their brakes once they get in front of you."

Set an example for your teen by remaining calm and patient when you're at the wheel, and dismiss irate drivers with minimal reaction.

React cautiously to what appears to be an unmarked police car: Any car can signal or flash lights, motioning for another driver to pull over. While rare, police impersonations do happen, so your teen should proceed with caution in response to an unmarked car. At the same time, they need to acknowledge the vehicle as possibly legitimate.

"Put on your hazard lights and continue driving," Solomon recommends. "This indicates that you know they are there, if they really are a cop. But if they aren't, this generates unwanted attention."

The best place to pull over is always a lit, populated area, where the teen driver should remain locked in the car. A call to the local police will confirm if an unmarked officer is patrolling the vicinity.

Don't feel obligated to your peers: A teen with a car attracts attention. Classmates your teenager barely knows will cozy up to secure a ride. It can be hard for young people to turn down their peers.

The message to deliver is that any unknown person is unwelcome in the car, even another teen. And in most areas, a restricted driver license prohibits the teen driver from transporting non-family members.

Since perception is of primary concern to this age group, help your son or daughter formulate some responses to draw upon: "Sorry, I'm going straight to soccer." Or "My grandmother is waiting for a ride." Or "My dad needs the car." These answers give kids an easy out.

Be on the offense in dark parking lots: Teens don't always plan ahead, and often park their car in daylight but return after dark.

"Before you park, think about how long you'll be and what kind of neighborhood you're in," Solomon says.

Tell the teen drivers that if they'll be returning after dusk, they should park under a street light. Walking back to the car with keys in hand not only prevents fumbling around for them, but gives them something to strike with if the need arises. Also, remind them to remain alert.

"This isn't a time to be on the phone or texting," says Solomon.

Don't sympathize with a hitchhiker: An altruistic attitude is common among young people, but it can be dangerous, particularly if they're thinking of offering a ride to a hitchhiker.

"Ask yourself why that person is on the side of the road," Solomon suggests. "Do they have a mental illness? Did they escape from jail? Are they a drug addict, looking to steal your car for money?"

Point out that although the hitcher appears harmless, and maybe even vulnerable, with a pet or child in tow, the reality might be quite different. "Once a stranger is inside your car, it's no longer a safe place," says Solomon.

Teens should know that any time they're concerned about someone's safety, hitchhiker or otherwise, the best way to help is to notify the police.

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