They've gone through the classes, they passed the exams and the road test and they're ready to take off in the vehicle but before they do…here's a few things every (teen) driver should know.
- They should know their state's curfew times. There's nothing worse than getting a telephone call after midnight because your child was late.
- How to change a tire. Before we were allowed to drive a vehicle without a guardian or parent alone, my father made us get out the jack and spare tire, hoist up the vehicle and replace an alleged flat tire. When that task was done we had to repeat and put the spare tire back in the trunk.
- Do an under-the-hood inspection. Where's the oil dipstick and how much oil is in there? Where does the windshield washer fluid go? How do you check the battery cables, connections and wires? How do you refill the antifreeze and water levels?
Information that Every Driver Needs to Know
- When minor repairs and general maintenance are being done have your teen driver help and assist with the process.
- Know where the proof of insurance and registration are located in case of emergency.
- Teach the rules of the road. Some states prohibit- and even if your state isn't one of them- make sure your teen pulls over when making a cell phone call. The less distractions the safer they are.
- Show them, and make them show you, how to check the tires' pressure and how to fill the tires with the appropriate amount of air.
- Teach the teen driver how to use flares and triangles supplied in a car kit. Make sure they have the car kit and a first aid kit available and stocked.
- Make sure they know how to replace headlight bulbs. Do this at night when most bulbs need to be replaced.
- Have the teen driver pull up to the gas pump and pump their own gasoline.
