10 Tips on How to Talk with Your Teen About Safe Driving

Discussing challenging topics with children is never easy, and one such conversation that often worries parents happens before entrusting their teens with the family car. Talking to teenagers about safe driving is a crucial conversation parents must navigate to ensure the safety of their child and everyone else on the road.

The Travelers Canada 2024 Distracted Driving Survey revealed significant concerns among Canadian parents regarding their children’s lack of focus while driving, with 61 per cent expressing concern. The survey also highlighted drivers between 18 and 34 are more likely than the overall population to frequently or sometimes use an interactive map, record videos, take photos, check social media and text, receive calls, shop online or order food while driving. 

As we kick off summer and teens start to hit the road, here are 10 tips to help you talk to your child about safe driving:

1. Start Early. Begin conversations about safe driving well before your teen begins learning to drive to help instill a sense of responsibility and awareness about its importance.
2. Lead by example. Practice safe driving (if you are not already). Studies show that young drivers are influenced by positive role modelling from their parents.
3. Know the facts about teen driving. Some teens increase their collision risk through behaviours like speeding, driving under the influence and driving distracted. Familiarize yourself with your province’s Graduated Driver Licensing laws to address these risks effectively. 
4. Emphasize the importance of focus. Stress the importance of staying focused while driving. Encourage the use of the “Do Not Disturb” feature on smartphones, among other tools.
5. Discuss the dangers. Talk openly about the risks of reckless and distracted driving. Use real-life examples to illustrate these points.
6. Reinforce the importance of defensive driving. Teach defensive driving techniques, such as keeping a safe following distance, being aware of other drivers and anticipating potential hazards. Reinforce that defensive driving can prevent accidents.
7. Be a great coach. Stay calm and set clear expectations and consequences regarding dangerous driving behaviours mentioned above. Consider putting expectations on paper by drafting a simple parent-teen driving contract to outline these rules and provide encouragement through positive reinforcement. 
8. Educate About Car Maintenance. Teach your teen basic car maintenance, such as checking tire pressure, oil levels and understanding warning lights. Knowing how to maintain a vehicle can prevent accidents caused by mechanical failures. 
9. Stay involved. Monitor your teen’s driving behaviour even after they obtain their license. Continue coaching them on safe driving practices, recognizing that learning to drive safely requires time, experience and skill. 
10. Be confident. Know that you can positively influence your young driver’s behaviour behind the wheel.

Fostering a dialogue about safe driving with your child is essential for their well-being and that of others on the road. By starting early, leading by example and addressing specific risks and responsibilities, you can help prepare them to navigate the challenges of driving safely.

By: Paul Stone, Vice President of Personal Insurance, Sales, Distribution & Marketing, Travelers Canada