Part of good driving is planning ahead. Review this checklist with your teen each time he or she picks up the car keys. Discuss strategies for dealing with challenging situations, such as allowing more time for driving in bad weather or during rush hour. Make sure your teen has alternate transportation arrangements or knows to call a parent if he or she needs a ride home or is uncomfortable driving.
State of mind and physical condition.Is your teen: |
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Tired or upset? |
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Taking medications? (e.g.,
cold medication or anything else that can impair judgement
or cause drowsiness) |
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Drinking? Taking other drugs? |
Route.Has your teen: |
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Planned the route in advance? |
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Planned enough time to get to the destination? |
Weather and road conditions. |
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Is bad weather expected?
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Are the roads icy or wet? |
Time and day of week.Is your teen confident and skilled to drive: |
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In rush hour? |
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On a Friday or Saturday night? |
Passengers. |
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How many passengers will
be in the car? |
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Are they aware of your family's house rules? |
Is the drive challenging? |
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New route |
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Raining |
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Passengers |
Use the family contract to help you make decisions about the trip. If you feel uncomfortable letting your teen drive on a specific occasion, it is okay to say "No."
