EDUCATION IS KEY FOR YOUNG DRIVERS
How to make sure new generation of motorists stays safe during commute
A new generation of young British Columbia drivers is beginning the ritual of commuting in the rain and fog of a West Coast winter.
In Greater Vancouver, that commute is made all the more challenging by heavy congestion on our roadways, particularly as thousands of students make their way to school each day.
According to BCAA, just over six per cent of licensed drivers in B.C. are between ages 16 and 20. Yet, drivers in this age group are involved in 14 per cent of crashes, and have a fatality rate more than nine times as high as drivers ages 45 to 54.
The statistics can be scary. However, as a parent, there are a number of measures you can take to ensure your young driver’s commute is as safe as possible.
Teen drivers have less experience and skill, so may not be able to handle out-of-the-ordinary situations.
Establishing a regular route, and practising that route with an experienced driver, helps new drivers avoid unexpected situations.
One of the most common contributors to teen accidents is distracted driving.
A 2015 study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found distracted driving, including texting or having another passenger in the car, is a factor in six out of 10 moderate to severe teen accidents.
Parents can counteract these dangerous statistics by emphasizing good habits while teaching their teen the basic rules of the road.
Consistent and friendly reminders to put phones out of sight and out of mind when driving and to avoid adjusting the stereo when driving can save lives.
No one learns to drive with just a couple hours of practice — it takes years of on- and off-road teaching time, in various locations, situations, and weather conditions to develop good habits.
Professional driving classes are always a good, and sometimes better option for parents. A study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that driver’s education reduces the chances of a teen getting in a crash by 4.3 per cent.
Driving classes go in-depth into safety skills, and provide a great model for driving etiquette. The focus isn’t just on passing the road test. Teens get real-life practice on what to do if they skid out, lose a tire, or need to deal with an unpredictable driver. Programs like Ford Driving Skills for Life offer hands-on training and education around distracted driving at no cost. Look for a training event near you.
However you decide to teach your child, make sure good judgment and sound safety skills are the main emphasis.
Preparing them to have patience in our busy metropolitan communities is a big part of arriving safely at their destination.