10 Essential Tips for Parents Guiding New Young Drivers

Navigating the transition from pedestrian to driver is a significant milestone for teenagers, young drivers and their parents alike. The freedom and independence that come with driving are exciting for young drivers, but they also bring a host of challenges and concerns for parents. 

According to the Road Safety Authority of Ireland, young drivers (aged 17-24) are disproportionately represented in road traffic collisions, highlighting the critical need for proper guidance and education.

In this guide, we aim to equip parents with essential tips and strategies to help new young drivers develop safe and responsible driving habits, choose the right vehicle, understand insurance options, and prepare for the road ahead.

1. Be the Role Model: Embody Responsible Driving Habits

As a parent, your driving habits significantly influence your teenager's behaviour behind the wheel. Demonstrate responsible driving by adhering to speed limits, avoiding distractions such as phone usage, wearing seat belts, and respecting traffic laws. Your actions set a powerful example, instilling safe driving habits in your teenager from the start. If you feel that you need to brush up on  your driving you can follow our guide on advanced driving tips from experts.

2. Car Driving Practice Tips

Practical experience is crucial for new drivers, especially those that have yet to get their license. Under the RSA’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) scheme, you must take compulsory lessons with an RSA Approved Driving Instructor before you’re able to attempt a test. But lessons alone won’t be enough to prepare you for the test, you will need plenty of practice driving too. Start with quiet residential areas before progressing to busier roads and highways. Practice various driving conditions, such as night driving and adverse weather, to build confidence and competence.  Use these 10 Tips for Teaching Your Child To Drive  to help them on their driving journey.

3. Understanding Irish Traffic Laws

Ensure that your child is well-versed in Irish traffic laws. Familiarise them with the Rules of the Road, focusing on key areas such as speed limits, right of way, and pedestrian crossings. Understanding these laws is fundamental to safe and legal driving for new young drivers.

4. Teaching Safe Driving Habits

Emphasise the importance of defensive driving, an essential skill for avoiding accidents and staying safe on the road. Encourage your child to anticipate potential hazards, maintain a safe following distance, and stay alert to other drivers' behaviours. There are many great tips for safer driving for young drivers in this hub if you want to develop their advanced driving skills. By fostering these habits early on, you can help your child become a more cautious and skilled driver, capable of navigating a variety of driving situations safely.

5. Addressing the Impact of Distractions While Driving

Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents among young drivers. Discuss the dangers of phone usage, eating, and other distractions while driving. As recently discussed in the Oireachtas based on RSA research on mobile phone use among drivers aged 18 to 24, found that 100% of focus group participants use their mobile phones while driving, at least occasionally. Implement rules such as keeping phones out of reach and limiting the number of passengers. For more details on this topic, check out our tips to avoid distracted driving.

6. Preparing for Emergencies and Vehicle Breakdowns

Equip your child with the knowledge and tools to handle emergencies and breakdowns. Teach them how to change a tire, check oil levels, and understand warning lights on the dashboard. Ensure they have an emergency kit in the car, including items like a first aid kit, flashlight, and basic tools. Refer to What to Do if You’re in a Car for detailed advice on accident preparedness.

7. The Importance of Regular Vehicle Maintenance

Regular maintenance is key to vehicle safety and longevity. It's essential to teach young drivers the importance of routine checks and servicing to ensure their car remains in optimal condition. Begin by showing them how to monitor tire pressure and explain how maintaining the correct pressure can improve fuel efficiency and prevent blowouts. Teaching them how tread depth impacts driving can also be helpful so they know when to replace their tyres. Educate them on checking fluid levels, including oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid, to keep the car running smoothly and avoid potential damage. These tips are also handy to brush up on for your own sake and ensuring your own car is kept maintained.

8. Choosing The Right Vehicle for New Drivers

Selecting the right car involves balancing safety, reliability, and affordability. Look for vehicles with high safety ratings, modern safety features (like ABS and airbags), and good fuel efficiency. Resources like the Guide to Buying Your First Car will provide valuable insights. This can be fairly difficult to navigate as there are so many things to consider when buying a car, such as should I drive electric or hybrid, a second hand car or even when is the best time of year to buy a car?

9. Car Insurance For Learner Drivers on Parents’ Policy

Insuring a learner driver on a parent's policy is a practical and cost-effective option. It provides coverage while allowing young drivers to gain driving experience under your supervision. Be sure to inform your insurance provider about the new driver.

10. Telematics (or Black Box) Car Insurance For Young Drivers

Telematics insurance, or black box insurance, involves installing a device in the car to monitor driving behaviour. It can encourage safe driving habits by providing feedback and potentially lowering premiums based on performance. In order to provide young drivers with good value and affordable car insurance we have created AIG BoxClever.

Learn more about this innovative option with our Complete Guide To Telematics Insurance

Conclusion

Guiding your child through the early stages of driving involves a combination of practical instruction, setting clear rules, and providing ongoing support. By embodying responsible driving habits, ensuring they understand traffic laws, and equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge, you can help them become a safe and confident driver. Remember, this journey requires patience and persistence, but with the right approach, you can ensure your child enjoys the freedom of driving while prioritizing safety and responsibility.

If you would like to add your child under your existing policy, access your MyAIG Account. Alternatively, if you would like to get AIG BoxClever and encourage safe driving, get an online quote here and enjoy 10% off!

For any other information you need, visit our car insurance homepage or contact us.