Teen Driving Tips

Lets start with an example: Lets say you're the first person in your class to get your drivers license. You've studied the rules of the road, taken the road test well enough to satisfy the unsmiling Registry Officer, and worked for 3 summers cutting grass so you could afford to buy the 9 or 10 year old vehicle you will soon call home, worked 4 winters in the pizza shop to afford just the down payment for your first insurance policy, and you're ready to start commandeering the road.  You drive to school, and all of your friends want to be with you. Unfortunately, you can only cram 7 of them into your sedan at any one time. The music's blaring, cell phones are busy, everyone is singing and yelling over the music. Now where the@#$#@! did that curb come from? And how could it do SOOOO much damage? 

You can't blame your parents for this one.  You've watched them driving for years. There's a reason for all those lectures, that may go something like this:

Seatbelts are not optional.

Cell phones and driving are privileges best enjoyed separately.

Consumption of food or beverages and driving are best enjoyed separately.

Your parents may not think you'd ever even consider doing this, and most of you won't, but for the rest of you: Drugs and alcohol really do affect the way you drive-save yourself the aggravation, hassle and expense of the bureaucratic court battles, unhappy police officers, and  angry parents. Not to mention how you would feel if you hurt or killed someone else. 

It is not wise to drive while getting dressed, applying make-up, fixing your hair, or adjusting any various body-piercings.

Understand why Parents don't want you driving with friends in the car, at least not for awhile. It is easier for you to get used to the car, how it handles, and how to pay attention to what's going on outside the car if you're alone. If a friend or two is with you, you will be distracted.

Take responsibility for the car: Even older cars like to be washed & vacuumed once in a while. Remember to have the oil changed regularly, and check the other fluids every so often. (NEVER open the radiator if the vehicle has been running) Don't be afraid to ask someone to show you where things are under the hood. Most mechanics are very willing to share some knowledge-it's called customer service. If you're not comfortable talking to or don't trust a mechanic, find another one. Check the tires to make sure they're properly inflated and not worn out-blow-outs are not fun, and pressure in the tires does affect gas consumption.

More tips are available on the RMV's website, or other related websites, just don't download and read them while driving!