As a parent you are faced with many concerns about the well-being of your children. There are many significant events that bring new changes and worries that can be difficult to deal with as a loving family member. One of these moments comes when your teenager decides to learn to drive, and you have to learn to trust them enough to let them hit the road on their own. With statistics from the NSW Legislation Roads and Maritime Services showing that drivers between the ages of 17-25 are more likely to be involved in accidents causing death or injury, it is a potentially dangerous moment in a young person’s life and can create a lot of stress for parents.

Getting a License

Throughout Australia, graduated licensing systems have been introduced to prolong the process of getting a licence as a young driver. It has been designed to ensure that young drivers are restricted in their driving to ensure they are confident and skilled before receiving a full licence. Young people must complete up to 100 hours of logged driving practice with an experienced driver before being awarded their “P” plates (probationary licence).

Once they are able to drive on their own, they are then faced with speed, alcohol consumption, and passenger and car restrictions that help protect them from potentially dangerous situations. In some states in Australia, young people are not allowed to drive with other young people in the car, unless there is someone over the age of 23 present. It is important that both you and your child know and follow the driving laws that apply within your state.

Be Well Insured

As much as we would like to avoid them, accidents do happen whether on the road or in the local carpark. It is important that you have adequate insurance for your car and driver. Looking into insurance, like car insurance at Budget Direct and others like it, offers an array of options on low rates to research and help you feel more comfortable about letting your child out on the road. Having insurance will save you all the headache of huge fees and licence suspensions for not having coverage.

Get Up to Speed

Throughout this process it is likely that you will be the one teaching your child how to drive, or at least providing guidance when they are completing their required driving practice. It is a good idea to consider taking a driving course yourself to ensure you are up to date with the latest procedures and driving practices.

Promote Safe Driving Practices

It is important to talk to your teenager about their driving habits and to encourage safe driving practices. When they first head out on the road, it is good to remind them to concentrate and to check how comfortable they feel about driving on their own. Remember, it is just as scary for them as it is for you. If both you and your teenager are confident in their driving abilities and follow some sensible precautions, this step in their transition into adulthood will be far less worrisome for everyone. The more knowledge and practice, the better.

This article was written by Kate Myers… Not your typical susie-homemaker, Kate won’t cook you dinner, but if your car stalls out, she will know exactly what’s wrong as soon as you start the ignition. She might not cook or clean but Kate will get you back on the road in no time.