Nobody is born knowing how to drive. It’s a skill that must be learned through practice and instruction. And while some people might be able to pick it up more quickly than others, there’s no substitute for a good, solid education in safe driving. If you’re a parent, teaching your kid how to drive can be daunting and rewarding. But it’s also one of the most important things you can do. Here’s why.
1. It Could Save Their Life
According to the National Safety Council, there were 21,450 motor vehicle deaths during the first half of 2021, up 16% from 18,480 in 2020. That’s a large percentage increase. And while there are many factors contributing to this surge in fatalities, one thing is certain: uneducated and inexperienced drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents. By teaching your kid how to drive, you could be saving their life.
It’s not just about teaching them the skills they need to operate a vehicle. It’s also about instilling in them a sense of responsibility and caution. When they know how important it is to drive safely, they’re more likely to make good decisions behind the wheel.
2. It Could Save Someone Else’s Life
In addition to the risk of harming themselves, inexperienced drivers also pose a danger to others on the road. By teaching your kid how to drive safely, you could be saving someone else’s life as well.
According to National Safety Council (NSC), human error is one of the leading causes of car accidents at 90%. Driving is all about being aware of your surroundings and making good decisions. When everyone on the road operates with these principles in mind, it makes for a much safer environment.
So, if you’re a parent, teaching your kid to drive is one of the most important things you can do. Not only could it save their life, but it could also save the lives of others. It’s a responsibility that should be taken seriously.
3. It Can Help Them Avoid a Criminal Record
In addition to the potential for causing serious harm, inexperienced drivers are also more likely to find themselves on the wrong side of the law.
Speeding, reckless driving, and other forms of careless driving can lead to costly tickets, points on your license, and even jail time. By teaching your children to drive safely, you can help them avoid all of this. A criminal record can seriously impact their lives, making it difficult to get a job, rent an apartment, or even obtain insurance. So, it’s definitely worth avoiding.
4. It Can Save You Money
If your kid gets into an accident, you could be on the hook for some serious money. Not only will you have to pay for any damage they cause, but you may also be responsible for their medical bills. If they injure someone else, you could even be sued.
Teaching your kid to drive safely can help you avoid all of this. A safe driver is a less expensive driver. So, it’s definitely in your best interest to make sure they know how to drive safely.
5. It Can Give You Peace of Mind
As a parent, it’s natural to worry about your kids. And when they’re out on the road, that worry can be amplified. But if you know they’ve been taught to drive safely, it can give you a sense of peace and security.
You’ll know they have the skills and knowledge they need to navigate the roads safely. And you’ll know they’re less likely to be involved in an accident. So, even though it might be a bit stressful at first, teaching your kid to drive is definitely worth it for the peace of mind it can provide.
6. They Learn the Do’s and Don’ts of Driving
Last but not least, teaching your kid to drive is a great way for them to learn the do’s and don’ts of driving. They’ll learn what to do in different situations and how to avoid dangerous situations.
For example, in Texas, you can’t drive with a BAC (blood alcohol concentration) or BrAC ( breath alcohol concentration) of more than .08%. If your child knows this, they’re less likely to make the mistake of driving while intoxicated.
In addition, they’ll learn important things like the importance of wearing a seatbelt, how to change a tire, and what to do if they’re in an accident. All of this knowledge can help them stay safe on the road.
There are many reasons why it’s so important to teach your child to drive safely. It’s not just about keeping them safe, but it’s also about keeping others safe. So, if you’re a parent, make sure you take the time to teach your kid how to drive safely. It’s one of the most important things you can do for them.