When a teenager finally gets a driver’s license, it can be convenient for parents, but also worrisome. Not only are teens inexperienced behind the wheel, but they're vulnerable to distractions. New drivers also tend to put a lot of faith in those around them. To prevent a personal injury, it’s crucial to drive defensively. Here are a few strategies to teach your teens so they can stay safe behind the wheel. 

How to Teach Your Teen to Drive Defensively

1. Leave Plenty of Stopping Distance 

Tailgating is incredibly dangerous and increases the risk of causing a rear-end collision. Teens who fail to leave plenty of space between their own vehicle and the car just ahead are more likely to crash should a hazard arise. When you follow too closely, you’re trusting the motorist in front you will not stop short. Teens should get into the habit of maintaining at least three seconds of stopping distance when learning how to drive. 

2. Use Turn Signals When Appropriate 

A critical component of defensive driving is using a blinker every time you make a maneuver that calls for one, like turning or changing lanes. However, remember that you may not always be able to trust other motorists’ turn signals. Some drivers who do not have their blinkers on may end up turning, for example. Teach your teen to be aware of their surroundings, especially when they’re changing lanes on a busy highway.

3. Remember Right of Way

Do you know who has the right of way at a four-way stop? In general, if two vehicles arrive at a four-way stop simultaneously, the vehicle toward the left must always yield to the one toward the right. Likewise, if more than two cars approach the intersection at the same time, the vehicle farthest to the right is technically allowed to proceed first. However, a tenet of defensive driving is adjusting to the conditions. That means you should never assume other motorists will respect your right of way, so always make eye contact before proceeding with caution. 

Although practicing defensive driving will greatly decrease the chance of collisions, it’s not always possible to anticipate the actions of other drivers. If you or your teen is injured in an accident, reach out to the personal injury attorneys at Kidwell & Gallagher LTD. Located in Elko, NV, this law firm is proud to represent accident victims throughout the state. For more than two decades, they’ve been helping personal injury claimants secure the damages they deserve from reckless and negligent parties. To see what past clients have to say about the counsel they provide, visit their website. To discuss your personal injury claim with a member of the team, call (775) 738-1000.