Heads Up to New Drivers
Remember when you first got your driver’s license? The newfound freedom was thrilling, you could now go anywhere you wanted without the embarrassment of your mom dropping you off. However, the ability to drive came with new responsibilities and consequences.
If you now have a teen driver, then know how scared your parents felt when they first saw you drive away. In order to ease some of that worry, John Price Law Firm has compiled a list to help your teen handle a few scenarios that may arise while they’re on the road.
What to do when you’re stopped by a police officer
If your teen gets stopped for speeding, make sure they safely pull over to the side of the road in a visible, well-lit area They should have their license and registration available to give to the officer. Remind your teens to always stay polite with an officer and to never remove their seatbelt when pulled over.
What to do when the “check engine” light comes on
If the “check engine” light comes on when your teen is driving, have them double check to make sure their gas cap is on securely. If this does not fix the issue, they should head over to an auto service store to have them check the diagnostics. Most of the time driving is safe but it should be looked at as soon as possible once your teen reaches their destination.
How to deal with a flat tire
A flat tire is something that all drivers dread, but if it happens to your teenager while they’re on the road, have them pull off to the side. Next, they’re going to need to call roadside assistance if they don’t know how to change the tire themselves. If they do know how to change a tire, make sure they are out of traffic, and insight of oncoming traffic. Teaching your teen how to change a tire is a great bonding experience and also helps to ensure their safety on the road.
What to do if you’re involved in a car crash
As new drivers, teens are more prone to get in car accidents, so they should always be prepared. If their car is drivable and no one is hurt, have them put their four-way flashers on and safely pull out of traffic. Next, they need to call the police and report the accident. Afterward, they should exchange insurance information with the other driver involved. It’s also a good idea to take photos of the damage to both vehicles for insurance claims. It’s important to talk to your teen about the dangers of the road so they are better equipped to handle an accident if it occurs.
At John Price Law Firm, we care about the safety of you and your family. If you or a loved one are involved in a collision, please contact us. Remember to remind your teen to drive safely, and have them read over these four scenarios and how to handle them before they hit the road.
Additional Resources:
https://www.dmv.org/how-to-guides/changing-tire.php