When teens become aware that they are in a “driving age”, they start to feel a sense of fun, adventure and freedom to do as they please. They begin to imagine where they can take their friends to different places e.g the malls and are eager to apply for their driver’s license.
Although, as a parent, you are excited your teen is starting to develop into an adult, you fear that your teen may get into trouble with the law if they don’t understand the teen driving laws in Texas. You know that your teen should understand the Texas teen driving laws and follow them to heart if they want to continue driving in their prime years.
When you help your teens understand Texas teen driving laws, have them realize the laws are intended to keep them safe and to protect them, their passengers and other drivers – not to spoil their fun.
Read on to learn the two of the most important things for your teen to understand about the teen driving laws in Texas.
Teach Them About Buckle Up Safety
It is mandatory that your teen buckle up before driving to their destinations.
Many teenagers would believe it’s not cool to wear their seatbelts but reassure your teen that wearing a seatbelt everytime they drive is only to protect them and to prevent injuries in case of an accident.
Also, let your teen know that wearing a seatbelt is not only for them but for all passengers riding along.
Teach Them About Not Using Cell Phones While Driving
This is one of the most important things you should teach your teen – to never use their cell phone while driving.
Your teen will feel that they can multitask while driving on the road, but according to Edgars Nyder, “94 percent of teen drivers acknowledge the dangers of texting and driving, but 35% admitted to doing it anyway. 21 percent of teen drivers involved in fatal accidents were distracted by their cell phones.”
Also, according to American Safety Council, 37 states (including Texas) have bans on phone use by teen drivers.
When you are teaching your teen how to drive, let them know that using your cell phone while driving is against the law and should not be used.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, you want your teen to learn how to drive with their friends, but you also want them to be responsible drivers by abiding Texas teen driving laws. We hope this article will help you as parents to assist your teens in understanding Texas driving laws and become better, safer drivers.