Road Rules for Teenage Drivers

Learning how to drive is an essential part of your teen’s development. If you are teaching your teenager how to drive, or if you are planning to do so soon, it’s important that you discuss the rules of the road with them and practice good driving habits to model what they should be doing when it’s their turn. While some teens may be nervous about learning a new skill, others may be overzealous about their newfound freedom. Make sure your teen knows the following safe driving tips before handing over those keys:

Eyes On The Road

Remind your teen that their focus needs to be on the road at all times. It’s important that they stay alert so that they have plenty of time to respond to changing weather or traffic conditions. Teens often struggle with distracted driving, especially when it comes to their cellphone. Remind them of the dangers of texting while driving, and encourage them to place their phone somewhere out of reach each time they start their car. Even talking on the phone using a hands-free device can draw their attention away from driving carefully. Additionally, loud music will prevent them from hearing sirens and honks, making them less aware of their surroundings.

Limit Number of Passengers

The number of passengers that young drivers are allowed to have in their vehicles varies from state to state. In Maryland, drivers under the age of 18 who have a provisional license may not drive a car with passengers under the age of 18 for the first 5 months of having that license. There are some exceptions to this rule. A minor can drive a car with minor passengers if there is at least one adult in the car who is over the age of 21.  The adult must have a driver’s license for at least 3 years and be seated next to the driver. Additionally, minors can drive passengers who are under 18 if they are related to the minor, such as siblings. If your teen is pulled over for another offense, the police can cite them for this offense as well, which may cause their driver’s license to be suspended or revoked.

Proactive Driving is Safe Driving

It’s important that your teenager realizes the importance of being proactive while on and off the road. Weather conditions may impact how confident they feel behind the wheel, so they will need to be informed on how to take additional safety measures during extreme rain, snow, wind, or fog. If some driving conditions are less familiar to your teen than others, such as the differences between driving in a city vs. driving on the highway, allow them opportunities to practice in a variety of traffic conditions to get the hang of it. Additionally, discuss with your teen the importance of having car insurance at all times, as it is illegal to drive without car insurance in Maryland. Accidents happen, and when they do, your teen should be prepared. Maryland Auto Insurance Providers offers Maryland drivers of all driving histories the opportunity to secure affordable car insurance. Learn more about your auto insurance options by requesting a free MAIF quote today.