Tips For Parents of Teenage Drivers (2023)

Tips For Parents of Teenage Drivers: Statistics, Risks, and Legal Implications

As teenagers get their driver’s licenses, they look forward to the freedom and independence that comes with it. However, with this freedom comes great responsibility. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), teenage drivers are more likely to be involved in car accidents than any other age group.

If you’re looking for tips for parents of teenage drivers or need legal help for a young driver, contact our team at Varghese Summersett.

This article explores the risks and legal implications of teenage driving in Texas and provides helpful tips for parents of teenage drivers.

Statistics on Teenage Driving in Texas

Teenage drivers are responsible for a significant number of car accidents in Texas. In 2020, there were 314,886 total crashes involving motor vehicles in Texas. Of those, 67,648 involved drivers under the age of 21. In those accidents, 441 people were killed, and 4,223 were seriously injured.

Furthermore, TxDOT reports that in 2020, there were 119,885 crashes in Texas involving drivers under the age of 25, resulting in 748 deaths and 6,343 serious injuries. The risk of being involved in a car accident is highest for 16-year-olds, who are nearly three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than drivers between the ages of 20 and 24.

Risks Associated with Teenage Driving

Several factors contribute to the higher risk of car accidents among teenage drivers. These include:

• Inexperience: Teenage drivers lack experience and are less able to recognize and react to potential hazards on the road.
• Distracted driving: Many teenage drivers are easily distracted by friends, cell phones, or other devices while driving, which increases the risk of an accident.
• Speeding: Teenage drivers are more likely to speed and engage in other risky driving behaviors.
• Impaired driving: Teenagers are more likely to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Legal Implications of Teenage Driving Accidents

When teenage drivers are involved in a car accident, they may face legal consequences. In Texas, a teenage driver who causes an accident may be liable for damages and injuries. If the accident resulted in a fatality, the driver could face criminal charges, including manslaughter or vehicular homicide.

Parents of teenage drivers may also face legal consequences if their child causes an accident. Under Texas law, parents can be held liable for their child’s actions if they knew or should have known that their child was likely to engage in the activity that caused the accident.

Tips for Parents of Teenage Drivers

Parents are essential in helping their teenagers become safe and responsible drivers. Here are some tips for parents of teenage drivers:

• Enroll your teen in a driver education course to teach them the rules of the road and safe driving techniques.
• Limit your teen’s driving to daytime hours until they gain more experience.
• Prohibit your teen from using their cell phone or other devices while driving.
• Emphasize the importance of wearing seat belts and obeying speed limits and other traffic laws.
• Consider installing a tracking device on your teen’s car to monitor their driving habits.

As a parent, it’s natural to feel anxious when your teenager starts driving. While it’s an exciting milestone for your child, it also comes with much responsibility. As a parent, it’s your responsibility to ensure your child is safe on the road and follows the laws and regulations set by the state of Texas.

By following these tips and taking an active role in their teenager’s driving education, parents can help reduce the risk of car accidents involving teenage drivers.

Here are some tips for parents of teenage drivers to help keep their children safe on the road:

Texas Teenage Drivers

Texas has specific laws and regulations that apply to teenage drivers. It’s important to understand these laws and ensure your child follows them. In Texas, teenagers must hold a learner’s permit for six months before obtaining a provisional driver’s license. The state also has a graduated driver licensing (GDL) program that places restrictions on teenage drivers, such as limiting the number of passengers and the hours they can drive.

Driver’s Education Programs

Driver’s education programs are an excellent way for teenage drivers to learn safe driving practices. Texas requires teenage drivers to complete a driver’s education program before obtaining a driver’s license. Different types of driver’s education programs are available, including classroom instruction, online courses, and behind-the-wheel training.

Safe Driving Tips for Teenagers

Safe driving is crucial for teenage drivers. As a parent, you can encourage safe driving behavior by setting a good example and discussing safe driving practices with your child. Ensure your child understands the dangers of distracted driving and other dangerous behaviors, such as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Young drivers can benefit from additional tips, such as avoiding peer pressure and being responsible passengers. Ensure your child understands the dangers of getting into a car with someone drinking or using drugs.

Parental Liability of Teenage Drivers

Parents can be held liable for accidents caused by their teenage drivers. To minimize your liability, it’s essential to ensure your child is properly insured and follows the laws and regulations set by the state.

Car Insurance for Teenage Drivers

Car insurance can be expensive for teenage drivers. To reduce costs, consider adding your child to your existing policy or look for discounts that may be available. Encourage your child to maintain good grades, as many insurance companies offer discounts for students with high GPAs.

Accident Prevention Techniques

Preventing accidents is crucial for teenage drivers. Ensure your child understands the importance of defensive driving and avoiding dangerous situations. Please encourage your child to be aware of their surroundings and always to wear a seatbelt.

Mistakes Young Drivers Make

Young drivers often make mistakes on the road. As a parent, you can help your child avoid these mistakes by discussing them and encouraging safe driving practices. Some common teen driving mistakes:

• Speeding
• Not wearing a seatbelt
• Texting while driving

Has Your Teenager Been Involved in a Car Accident? Call us.

Remember, if you or your child has been involved in a car accident, it’s essential to contact our personal injury lawyers as soon as possible. The attorneys at Varghese Summersett have the experience and expertise to handle even the most complex car accident cases.

Our experienced team of attorneys can help you understand your legal rights and responsibilities as a parent of a teenage driver. Contact us today at 817-207-4878 or schedule a consultation on our website.

If you have any questions or concerns or need additional tips for parents of teenage drivers, don’t hesitate to contact us.

FAQ on Texas Teenage Drivers: Laws, Statistics, Tips