In the final days before Christmas, with young drivers on winter break, insurers around the country are asking parents to help their teens stay safe behind the wheel, especially if they live in places where there is a high chance of winter weather.
One insurer, GEICO, is even posting teen-specific safety tips, which include:
- Make sure you (the parent) help your teen practice driving in all types of weather, so they’re prepared for rain, sleet, snow and ice. Inexperienced drivers are more likely to panic when road conditions are less than ideal.
- Enforce seatbelt use. Remember that in the vast majority of fatal traffic accidents deaths could have been prevented if the driver and passengers were belted in. Since inclement weather increases the number of potential accidents, this is incredibly important. Set a good example, and be the first to buckle up whether you’re the driver or passenger in your car.
- Teach your teen how to handle a skidding car. It’s crucial that even new drivers know how to regain control in the event of an emergency.
- When the roads aren’t clear, drive slowly, and be sure your teen follows this example as well. Driving with caution is one of the best ways to stay safe in winter weather.
- Make sure your teen driver is prepared for the worst: keep a road-side safety kit, extra blankets, non-perishable food, and water in the trunk of your car in case of a breakdown, or in case they become stranded due to weather.
For more winter weather driving tips, for your teen driver, and for yourself, visit your insurer’s website. GEICO isn’t the only company posting information to help keep you safe during December – the busiest traffic month of the year.