Adding a teenager to your auto insurance policy means they officially have the green light to go driving once they get a permit or license. Letting your teen drive may make you nervous, but teaching them defensive driving moves will help you feel more confident in their ability to stay safe and avoid accidents. Below are a few key defensive driving tactics you should teach your teen.

Defensive Driving Moves Teenagers Should Know

1. Keep a Safe Distance 

Make sure your teenager knows the appropriate distance to stay behind other vehicles. They should leave a car’s length for every 10 mph of speed they’re going, which should give them enough time to stop if the car in front of them slams on the brakes.

2. Drive the Speed Limit

Stress the importance of not going over the speed limit, as exceeding it by even 5 mph increases the risk of an accident. Sharp curves, children in the area, and hidden driveways are all obstacles that are hard to anticipate, but that help set the speed limit. If your teen is in an unfamiliar area, driving in bad weather, or in busy traffic, going just under the speed limit may be wise.

3. Anticipate Other Drivers’ Movements

Your teenager should always use caution when anticipating others’ movements. A car with a blinker on may not actually be turning and pulling out in front of it can be dangerous. At red lights and stop signs, cars may not stop, so it’s always important to double-check that the road is clear. Anticipating potential errors or law-breaking by other drivers will help your teen stay prepared and limit accidents.

4. Pay Attention to Surroundings

Drivers should be on the lookout for situations that could turn into accidents by staying alert and aware of their surroundings. Teach your teenager to look at the road ahead but also at what’s happening on either side of them. A dog running in a yard, a car backing down a driveway, or kids playing ball could quickly turn into a risky situation if a driver is not paying attention. Attentive driving can help avoid these risks.

To add a teen to your auto insurance policy, call Aaron Insurance Agency in Dothan, AL. With over 20 years in business, this company offers affordable car insurance policies with reliable coverage. Their insurance agents are friendly and knowledgeable, and they work with a large network of auto insurance providers to find the best policy for you. Learn more about their affordable car insurance options online, and speak to one of their auto insurance agents by calling (334) 712-0777.