Von Schledorn Auto Group Official Blog
New Driver in the House? How to Talk to the Young Drivers in Your Family
By Product Expert | Posted in Safety, Tips and Info on Thursday, June 23rd, 2016 at 8:01 pm
With our five EVS Auto Group dealerships situated around eastern Wisconsin, we’re certainly accustomed to serving drivers at every stage of their transportation experience. This applies to young families looking for something efficient and functional, and it applies just as evenly to drivers finally buying their dream car. One of our most frequent conversations, however, deals with parents who have new drivers in their households. So, from your friends at Schledorn Auto Group, here are some tips for talking to the young drivers in your household.
Tips for Talking to Young Drivers
Let Them Know Your Expectations
As with any big life change — and being a new licensed driver qualifies, believe us — there will be ramifications if it’s not approached appropriately. Set parameters on when and where they can drive, the rules and expectations for when they are driving, and the consequences for when rules are broken. Also, be clear on issues such as phone safety, and that texting while driving is explicitly not allowed.
Tell Them What to Do if They’re Pulled Over
Getting pulled over is nothing new to old salts like us, but it can be a scary thing if you’re in your first months of driving. Of course, being pulled over is also a lot different now than it used to be, and should be approached differently as such. Let your kids know that they should be respectful, never to be argumentative, and to behave friendly and responsibly during the traffic stop.
Read More: What to Do When Your Car Overheats
Tell Them What to Do If they Get into an Accident
Before they ever get into a car crash, be certain to let them know that accidents happen, and that safety is much more important than any damage that may occur to the vehicle. However, they should still know how to handle an accident if they should ever get in one: Don’t panic, know what information to get from any other drivers involved, and know where to find insurance information.
Read More: The Benefits of Buying a Used Car
Be Real and Honest About Drunk Driving
Like it or not, drunk driving is a reality that can’t be ignored, especially with young drivers. Let them know your expectations, and that the stakes of driving drunk (or getting in a car with a drunk driver) are unbelievably high. Remind them, however, that you’d rather have them call you for a ride than have them in harm’s way. They’ll still be in trouble, of course, but they’ll be safe.
Being a parent obviously has some conversations that are tough to have, and in general, the tougher the conversation, the more important it is. We hope that you’ll have these talks with your young drivers, and that you’ll come see us soon at one of our EVS Auto Group locations!
