All teen drivers are at higher risk because they lack driving experience and judgment that only come with time and driving.

Managing the vehicle is only the beginning of learning to drive – decision making and judgment come with experience over time.

Teens with their own vehicles are at greater risk because they drive more and have fewer restrictions placed on them.

Even “responsible” friends in the car can be distracting. Crash risks are nearly doubled with one passenger – and go up further with each extra passenger.

All young passengers are potentially distracting and at risk with a new driver – siblings are not safer.

The GDL program is good, but is just a MINIMUM. Strict parent-imposed driving restrictions that go beyond the laws, increase teen safety.

Nearly all parents DO set limits, and teens expect limits. The stronger the limits, the better the safety outcomes.

Sample Driving Rules

There are some rules that your teen must follow at all times, regardless of the conditions. Here are some common rules to get you started.

Teen Driver Will:

  • Never play around with passengers, talk on a cell phone, mess with the radio or do anything else distracting
  • Always call home if for any reason it is not safe to drive or ride with someone else
  • Always call home if going to be late
  • Always wear a safety belt and require all passengers to wear safety belts
  • Always obey all traffic laws
  • Never speed, tailgate, or cut off others
  • Never drive after taking any drugs or alcohol or ride with a driver who has taken any drugs or alcohol
  • Always tell parent/guardian where going and with whom

Parent Will:

  • Provide safe ride home when asked (no questions at that time)
  • Consider necessary exceptions to the driving privileges
  • Apply rules fairly and consistently
  • Point out and discuss safe and dangerous driving situations and practices
  • Be a good role model behind the wheel