Set Appropriate Boundaries

Once parents are aware of the biggest factors affecting teen driver safety (e.g. distractions, peer passengers, speeding, etc.) and the laws in their state, you should encourage them to focus on communicating with their teens when setting "house rules."

Communication is the key to parents ensuring that the driving boundaries they set are actually followed by teens. Encourage parents to be firm yet supportive when setting rules and to listen to their teen's questions or thoughts. Parents should also stress that privileges can be earned over time. For example, if a rule of no driving past 9 p.m. is in place and the teen successfully drives alone for one year with no incidents, the parent should consider restructuring that rule.

When rules are set together, with input from the teen driver, parents have an opportunity to answer questions and address any concerns or misperceptions their teens may have. Research proves that teens with parents who set rules and monitor their behavior in a helpful, supportive way are less likely to speed, crash, or drink and drive.

For more information, check out Parenting Tips to Keep Teen Drivers Safe and Set House Rules and Reduce Crash Risks For Your Teen.