Safe driving is easier said than done. However, safe driving isn’t an option; it’s a requirement for parents who want to model these safe behaviors to their children. Below are some of the best ways you, as a parent, can drive safely and teach your children to do the same.
1. Wear a Seatbelt
Around 6 million car crashes occur every year in the United States, with half of those being fatal. One of the main causes of fatal car accidents is not wearing a seatbelt.
Wearing a seatbelt is one of the easiest things you can do to stay safe during an accident, and also one of the best habits to teach your child. If your child is old enough to sit without a booster, teach them the importance of using a seat belt and using one yourself.
Remember to use a seatbelt even if driving around the neighborhood or when parked. This will help enforce the importance of wearing seat belts for children.
2. Reduce Speed
As a parent, one of the worst things you can do is speed in the car with your child. Speeding is dangerous and won’t help you get to where you’re going faster. Instead, leave home on time or earlier, or call your boss if you’re coming late to work.
Regarding commuting, the motto “Better late than never” couldn’t be more accurate. Speeding increases the risk of damage to your car and your life, increases the chances of getting a ticket, and increases the chances of you being found at fault for an accident.
Teach your child not to speed by making a game of it! Ask your child to spot the speed limit sides on a road trip, or do a pop quiz and ask them what they know about speeding laws.
3. Never Drive Under the Influence
It’s never safe to drive under the influence. Even if you’ve had a glass of wine or beer, buzzed driving is drunk driving. Driving under the influence can also lead to accidents and even jail time. With over 1,268,011 U.S. men and women practicing as licensed lawyers, chances are one of them will seek maximum compensation for their clients if they cause an accident while under the influence.
Your custodial rights might also be affected if you’re a single or divorced parent if you cause an accident while under the influence. Keep your children safe, and never drive under the influence.
4. Use Parking Brakes
Did you know that a car is parked nearly 95% of the time? When your car is parked, it’s important to use parking brakes to prevent accidents such as your car rolling down a hill.
While it might seem like an unnecessary step, using your parking brakes when on a hill can help prevent your car from rolling down a hill and damaging other cars. If another driver hits your car, having your parking brake engaged can also help prevent further damage to your vehicle.
If you’re a parent, tell your kids about the importance of using a parking brake. Make it a habit to engage the brake when parked in steep areas, such as while camping or at the park.
5. Never Drive Using the Phone
Using a Bluetooth headset or a hands-free device is best if you’re driving. You can also opt to place your phone on silent or keep it away from you while driving.
Using your phone while driving is distracting and can increase your chances of being involved in an accident. You can even make a fun game of it and hand your phone over to your child for safekeeping! In any case, teach your children never to use their phones while driving.
Many parents might find it hard to use safe driving techniques while rushing to school, work, or home. These tips can help parents model safe driving and pass these life-saving habits on to their children.