Types of rules to consider
Passengers.
Passengers represent a huge risk factor for new drivers. A 16-year-old with 3 passengers faces nearly 3 times the risk of a fatal wreck as one driving alone. (Journal of the American Medical Association, March 22, 2000). Under new graduated licensing rules that took effect in October 2003, Novice drivers are usually restricted to one passenger. (Exceptions include when a fully-licensed supervisor 25 years or older is seated beside the driver.)
Time of day or week.
In B.C., most crashes involving teens happen on the weekend. Consider a curfew on weekend and night driving (especially on Friday and Saturday nights) until you gain confidence in your teen's driving ability.
Road and weather conditions.
Dangerous weather or road conditions present extra challenges for an inexperienced driver. Consider special rules to cover weather or road conditions, and ensure your teen knows that you have the final word when judging adverse weather or road conditions.
Geographic boundaries.
Mastering driving skills is more risky if your teen must also master a new route or drive through unfamiliar territory. Consider setting geographic boundaries.
Drugs and alcohol.
B.C. laws have tough restrictions that bar any alcohol in the body during the learner and novice stages. Consider extending your own no-drinking/no-drugs policy after your teen gets his full-privilege licence.
Seatbelts.
Even though your teen grew up using a seatbelt, don't assume he'll always use it when he gets out on his own. Discuss the risks of not using a seatbelt with your teen and talk about how he should always insist his passengers buckle up.
Car maintenance and operational costs.
Contributing to maintenance and insurance based on how much your teen is using your car will teach him about the true cost of car ownership. And understanding the financial risks of crashing may help your teen to think twice about his driving behaviour.
