Safe Driving Tips for Austin Teens (And What To Do In An Accident)
For Austin-area teenagers, getting that first driver’s license is a BIG deal.
For parents, on the other hand, the occasion can be a BIG cause for anxiety.
While this is typically an exciting moment for teens, as parents you want to ensure your child’s safety on the roads of Central Texas. To minimize the risk of accidents, you have to educate them about safe driving practices.
Establish Clear Rules Regarding Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a big problem among teen drivers. Any form of distraction can lead to accidents—even deadly ones.
Teens often underestimate the seriousness of this issue, so as parents we have to implement strict rules (and consequences) to deter distracted driving.
Distracted driving includes any behavior that takes the driver’s attention away from the road and the vehicle surroundings, such as:
- Using their phone
- Eating and drinking
- Combing hair or applying makeup
- Engaging in distracting conversations with friends riding in the car
- Daydreaming (thinking about that cute boy or girl in class)
- Driving while tired
It should go without saying, but you also need to make sure your teenager understands there are serious, even deadly consequences for driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs. Make sure they understand that minors can be charged as adults for alcohol and drug related offenses in the state of Texas.
Defensive Driving For Teenagers
Emphasize the importance of defensive driving when talking to your teenager and the battle is half won.
This means teaching them about:
Checking Mirrors
Encourage your teen to practice regularly checking the side and rearview mirrors to monitor their surroundings. Aside from observing other vehicles, they should be mindful of pedestrians, bicyclists, or animals, particularly when changing lanes or making turns.
Using Turn Signals
Ensure that your teen understands that using turn signals alerts other drivers about what they’re going to do in the car. This proactive approach can reduce the likelihood of accidents by allowing other drivers to adjust their speed or position on the road accordingly.
Maintaining a Safe Following Distance
Tailgating poses not only an inconvenience but also a potential hazard, especially on Texas highways where vehicles travel at higher speeds. It’s crucial for your teen to grasp the importance of maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead to prevent collisions.
Talk to them about why maintaining a distance from the vehicle in front is essential for accident prevention. A general rule of thumb is to maintain a distance of one car length for every 10 miles per hour of speed. For example, if your car is ttraveling at 60 mph, there should be six car lengths between vehicles.
Make Sure Your Child Knows Texas Law
Driving laws in Texas are similar to those around the U.S., with some exceptions. Here are some of the things you need to talk to your teenager about:
Move Over For Official Vehicles
This law requires that you provide a one-lane buffer between your car and law enforcement vehicles (or TXDOT vehicles) which are on the side of the road, or slowing down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit. You may be required to pay a fine of up to $2,000 if you violate this law.
No Cell Phones in School Zones
The law forbids you to talk on your cell phone when driving through a school zone (that law was enacted in 2009). But now it has been expanded to include school parking lots and drop off lanes, unless you are stopped and on a hands free device. Violators can face a fine of up to $200.
Don’t Pass School Buses
Punishment has increased if you pass a school bus when its flashing lights and stop signs are active. Violating this rule may result in a penalty ranging from $500 – $1,250, for first offenders.
First Steps After A Car Accident
Even the most cautious and attentive teens might find themselves in a car accident. If your teen finds themselves in a car accident, have them follow these steps:
- Stop your vehicle and try to remain calm.
- If you are able to safely move your vehicle out of traffic then do so.
- Call 911 and report the accident. The operator can assist you and can dispatch the necessary emergency personnel such as EMS, Police, and Fire Department.
- Check your passengers and yourself for any injuries.
- Only exit the vehicle if the area is safe and doing so would not put you in any additional risk.
- If you are able to safely exit your vehicle, check on the drivers in the other vehicle.
The next steps would be to start documenting what happened (taking photos of the scene, getting witness testimony, etc) and to get checked out by a medical professional. Remember: if you don’t see a doctor for an evaluation, it’s unlikely that you’ll have grounds for a personal injury case!
Teen Car Accident? You Need An Experienced Attorney
Despite taking all necessary precautions, accidents can still occur. In such situations, your teenager is going to need professional help.
If your teenager has been injured in an accident that was caused by the negligence of another driver, Funk & Associates is here to offer personalized legal assistance. Our attorneys handle all aspects of your case to make sure you get the compensation you deserve. Fill out our Free Personal Injury Claim Evaluation today and we’ll get started on your (or your teenager’s) case!
