Skip to main navigation
Skip to main content
Skip to footer
For
Medicare
For
Providers
For
Brokers
For
Employers
Español
For Individuals & Families:
For Individuals & Families
Medical
Dental
Other Supplemental
Explore coverage through work
How to Buy Health Insurance
Types of Dental Insurance
Open Enrollment vs. Special Enrollment
See all topics
Shop for Medicare plans
Member Guide
Find a Doctor
Log in to myCigna
Home
Knowledge Center
Wellness Library
Helping Your Teen Become a Safe Driver
Helping Your Teen Become a Safe Driver
Overview
Most parents are nervous about their teenager driving a car. As a parent, you are right in your concern.
Many teens learn to drive by taking driver's education classes. While teens are learning to drive, they need to get as much experience as possible with another adult in the car. If you are unable to help your teen learn to drive, ask another adult family member or friend to help out.
Don't let your teen drive alone—even after getting a license—until your teen has had enough experience and until you as a parent feel comfortable with your teen's driving skills. Also, make sure your teen has enough supervised experience driving in adverse conditions, such as rain or snow or at night, before you allow your teen to drive in these conditions unsupervised.
Some things about driving that parents need to emphasize:
- Don't eat, use a cell phone, or take your eyes off the road for even a moment while you are driving. Even using the radio can distract drivers and cause accidents. Headphones should never be worn by drivers.
- Don't text and drive.
- Drive defensively. Look out for other drivers.
- Make sure your car (tires, brakes, etc.) is in safe condition.
- Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is both dangerous and illegal. Riding in a car with a driver under the influence is life-threatening.
- Don't drive when you are tired.
- Seat belts must always be worn by the driver and passengers.
Remember to always set a good example for your teen.
Current as of: February 28, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.
To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org.
© 1995-2023 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
Related Links
Growth and Development, Ages 15 to 18 Years
<cipublic-spinner variant="large"><span>Loading…</span></cipublic-spinner>