A message from Liberty Mutual Insurance.
Learning to drive can be an exciting time for teenagers. While they’re experiencing new freedom and responsibilities, your focus may be more on making sure they’re prepared for whatever they encounter down the road. While driver’s ed can teach them about road signs and speed limits, you can help teach them what to do when things don’t go as planned.
What to keep in the car
Make sure your teens know where their license, registration, owner’s manual and proof of insurance are at all times. If something happens when they’re on the road, odds are they’ll need at least one of these items.
Auto safety kits are affordable and compact, and can help protect your teens in the event of a breakdown or accident. They often contain:
- Road flares
- Jumper cables
- Seatbelt cutters
- Blankets
- Safety glass breaker
- First aid kit
- Flashlight
Plus, in case your teens get stuck on the road and are waiting for assistance to arrive, keeping water and non-perishable food on hand can be helpful.
Important things to know
Share information with your teens about good driving habits, and that the safer they are, the more fun they’ll have behind the wheel.
- Develop a plan with your teens on what to do in the event of an accident, including exchanging information with other drivers, documenting damage with a cell phone, and contacting the police and your insurance company.
- Let them know what helpful insurance benefits and services they have access to, like 24-7 Roadside Assistance from Liberty Mutual.
- Have your teen choose a designated spot for their cell phone while they are driving to avoid distractions. And be sure they keep a cell phone charger in the car in case their battery gets low while they’re on the road.
- Discuss the dangers of texting and talking on the phone while driving. Other distractions like eating or putting on makeup should be avoided too.
- Be sure they understand how dangerous drinking and driving can be—to themselves, others and their future.
- Teach your teens how to perform common roadside fixes like changing a tire and jump-starting a car.
- Encourage them to call you if they have any questions or concerns, or need help.
Walk the walk
Another way to keep your teens prepared is to set a good example. Use small problems you encounter together as teaching moments, so they know how to handle it if it happens again. You can also take your teen to the repair shop to see the importance of regular auto maintenance.
For even more protection for your teens when they’re on the road, it helps to have a trusted ally that has their back.
