Three topics to make sure to speak to your teenager about before they are out on the road: texting/cell phone laws, safety belt laws, and Graduated Driver’s License programs. These three factors will help to ensure they get the best auto insurance in California.
Texting and cell phone usage in your vehicle is prohibited in the state of California. These are primary laws, which mean that police officers do not need an alternate reason to pull you over for the offense. If police officers suspect someone of talking or texting on their cell phone it is an immediate citation. It is helpful for your teen to know that this is no joke, texting and talking while driving has led to serious car accidents and, in some cases, death. Creating a serious environment while driving and using your phone allows your teenager to realize how dangerous it really is and how not doing it can save lives. In an effort to prevent texting and driving, updated technologies in cars and cell phones include the option to go ‘hands free.’ Notifying your teen of the possible usages of the hands free devices and allowing them gradual use of these devices will greatly help them build a foundation of how to properly communicate while driving.
Like the texting and cell phone usage laws, seat belt laws differ by state. However, in California, safety belt laws are enforced for both front-seat and rear-seat passengers, and are also primary laws. Safety belts laws are implemented to save lives and teenagers need to know this. Just like texting and driving, not wearing your safety belt could be severely hazardous to your health if you are in an accident. Sitting down and talking to your teen will allow them to realize the seriousness of the matter and help them to continue to build a positive platform towards being a responsible and experienced driver.
In addition to speaking to your teenager about the updated laws for driving a vehicle, having your teenager attend a Graduated Driver’s License class can greatly change the way your teenager views driving. In a study done in Oklahoma, “from 2000 to 2008, the number of drivers age 16-17 involved in fatal crashes decreased from a high of 69 in 2000 to a low of 35 in 2008.” These teens were involved in the Graduated Driver’s License program. These programs are in effect in all 50 states, as of 1998.
Explaining to your teen rules and regulations that are already given to them may seem redundant. However, a sit down chat with your child, as well as the GDL class, will reaffirm that your child needs to take driving seriously. Once your teenager has graduated to their unrestricted license, make sure to also meet with your local insurance agent to make sure to get the best auto insurance rates and discounts that can be applied to students and teens with a clear history of safe and educated driving.