Teen Driving Archives - DriveTeam, Inc. https://driveteam.com/category/teen-driving-2/ Driver Training School Tue, 16 Jul 2024 20:48:40 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 65449711 Turning Tragedy into Action: Kelly’s Crusade for Safer Roads https://driveteam.com/turning-tragedy-into-action-kellys-crusade-for-safer-roads/ https://driveteam.com/turning-tragedy-into-action-kellys-crusade-for-safer-roads/#respond Tue, 16 Jul 2024 20:48:34 +0000 https://driveteam.com/?p=7615 The post Turning Tragedy into Action: Kelly’s Crusade for Safer Roads appeared first on DriveTeam, Inc..

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Every parent of a teen driver understands the anxiety that accompanies watching their child drive away. The open road, while a symbol of freedom, is also fraught with potential dangers that can lead to a parent’s worst nightmare. For a couple in Northeast Ohio, this nightmare became a heartbreaking reality when they lost their daughter in a tragic accident. In the aftermath of their profound grief, they embarked on a mission to save other young lives and offer solace to parents like themselves. This is the story of Kelly’s Crusade.

The Heartbreaking Loss of Kelly Baker

Seventeen-year-old Kelly Baker was a kind, intelligent, and compassionate young woman. Her life was abruptly and tragically cut short one morning in 2011. On her usual route to school, Kelly encountered an unforeseen situation. She skidded off the road and, despite her efforts, could not regain control of her car. Her vehicle slid into a driveway, propelling her back onto the road, where she lost control once more. The car skidded sideways into a neighboring yard and crashed into a tree.

Kelly’s parents, Sharon and Rick Baker, believe that a combination of poor road conditions and Kelly’s inexperience as a driver contributed to the accident. They are haunted by the thought that Kelly might have survived if she had known how to handle the skid. “At least she might have had a clue instead of just complete panic in the dark,” Rick Baker laments.

The Birth of Kelly’s Crusade

Determined to prevent other families from experiencing similar heartache, the Bakers founded Kelly’s Crusade. This organization aims to provide teen drivers with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate dangerous driving conditions. Kelly’s Crusade goes beyond the basics of driver’s education, such as buckling up and keeping hands at nine and three. It emphasizes the importance of knowing how to react in critical situations, like skidding, which can make the difference between life and death.

Innovative Training for Real-Life Scenarios

Drew Salyer, President of DriveTeam and member of Kelly’s Crusade, leads the initiative’s training programs. He acknowledges that stories like Kelly’s are, unfortunately, all too common. However, he believes that the course designed by Kelly’s Crusade and the DriveTeam can equip young drivers to handle any scenario they might face on the road.

A standout feature of their training is the computer-operated SkidCar. This innovative tool simulates three common skidding scenarios, allowing students to experience and practice controlling a skid in a safe, controlled environment. Salyer explains, “It’s just like building any skill. When something happens, I’m going to go to that. If I don’t have the skill set to handle it, I’m going to panic. But if I have the skill set and I’ve developed that, I can practice and understand what to do when that situation occurs.”

A Call to Action for Parents and Teens

The Bakers emphasize that comprehensive driving education is as crucial as any other extracurricular activity. “This is important. It’s as important as baseball practice and soccer practice and anything else that your kids are involved in. This can save their life,” they stress.

Kelly’s Crusade is not only focused on educating young drivers but also on advocating for road improvement efforts and other safety projects. The Bakers’ ultimate goal is to reduce the number of avoidable accidents and ensure that no other parents have to endure the pain of losing a child in a preventable crash.

Conclusion

Kelly’s Crusade stands as a testament to the resilience and dedication of a family determined to turn their personal tragedy into a beacon of hope for others. By sharing Kelly’s story and providing life-saving driving education, the Bakers hope to make the roads safer for everyone. To learn more about Kelly’s Crusade and how you can get involved, visit their website.

In memory of Kelly Baker, let’s all strive to be better prepared and more vigilant on the roads, ensuring that every young driver has the skills they need to stay safe.

Thanks to News 5 Cleveland for all its support and coverage!

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]]> https://driveteam.com/turning-tragedy-into-action-kellys-crusade-for-safer-roads/feed/ 0 7615 Safe Driving Tips: Your Guide to Accident-Free Roads https://driveteam.com/safe-driving-tips-your-guide-to-accident-free-roads/ https://driveteam.com/safe-driving-tips-your-guide-to-accident-free-roads/#respond Mon, 28 Aug 2023 13:28:23 +0000 https://driveteam.com/?p=7430 The post Safe Driving Tips: Your Guide to Accident-Free Roads appeared first on DriveTeam, Inc..

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safe driving tips

Mastering safe driving tips is a crucial aspect of hitting the road.

Many motorists battle to follow appropriate protocols for guaranteeing safety on the roads.

This isn’t just about knowing how to operate your vehicle. It’s also about understanding and applying safe driving tips.

Neglecting these can lead to dire consequences – from minor accidents that could spike up your insurance rates, to major ones that could risk lives.

 

Table of Contents:

The Significance of Safe Driving and Defensive Practices

Operating an automobile responsibly isn’t just about following the regulations; it’s a purposeful promise each driver makes to safeguard themselves and others on the street. This approach significantly lowers car accident rates, thus preserving lives.

A proactive strategy that enhances safe driving practices is defensive driving. Anticipating potential hazards before they happen allows drivers to respond effectively and avoid collisions. Research has demonstrated that defensive driving can reduce the likelihood of car accidents by up to 20%.

Besides saving lives, adopting safe and defensive driving techniques also impacts your financial standing – especially when considering car insurance premiums. Insurance companies tend to offer lower rates for responsible drivers because they pose less risk on roads.

How Safe And Defensive Driving Affects Car Insurance Rates

Your behavior behind the wheel directly influences how much you pay in auto insurance premiums. Insurers take into account various factors, including your track record of either reckless or cautious conduct while operating a vehicle.

Some organizations highlight that individuals completing recognized defensive driving courses might be eligible for reductions on their car insurance premiums. This incentive is crafted to promote safer driving behaviors among drivers of all backgrounds.

This information clearly illustrates the advantages of adopting these best practices — it not only enhances our safety but also leads to financial savings over time. Armed with this knowledge, let’s explore essential safety tips that every driver should know.

Essential Safety Tips for All Drivers

Safety on the road is not an option but a necessity. Regardless of how experienced you are, it’s always wise to refresh your knowledge about essential safety practices.

The Role of Seat Belts in Driving Safety

Let’s start with seat belts – their importance cannot be overstated. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that almost 15,000 lives were saved by seat belts in one year alone.

This life-saving device keeps passengers secure during sudden stops or collisions and significantly decreases the risk of accidents and fatal crashes. It’s more than just law enforcement; wearing a seat belt should become second nature every time you get behind the wheel.

Understanding Traffic Signals and Speed Limits

Moving onto traffic signals – they’re there for a reason. These guidelines ensure smooth movement on roads while preventing potential mishaps. Ignoring them can lead to serious consequences like fines or even license suspension depending upon local laws.

Moreover, speed limits aren’t random figures posted on highways — they are determined by factors like pedestrian activity, roadway conditions, and more. Adhering to these limits isn’t just about legal compliance — it’s vital for ensuring order on our roads and preventing accidents.

In today’s world where everyone seems busy multitasking, it may seem tempting at times to use cell phones or eat meals while driving. However, this leads us into another critical aspect: distraction-free driving. Let’s explore this further.

Minimizing Distractions for Safer Driving

The roadways are filled with distractions that can divert a driver’s attention, leading to potential accidents. As We Save Lives, an international advocacy organization, points out:

In essence, focusing solely on operating your vehicle without succumbing to these diversions plays a crucial role in maintaining safety on our roads.

Mitigating Cell Phone Distraction Behind the Wheel

Given their widespread use and accessibility, cell phones have become significant sources of distraction when driving. Whether it’s answering calls or using GPS navigation apps, every interaction diverts focus from safe driving practices.

  1. To effectively battle this issue, utilizing hands-free gadgets that enable you to work your cell phone without physical contact is essential.
  2. However, beyond technological aids, discipline is key – prioritizing limiting overall device usage during drives, regardless of any tools at hand.
  3. Apart from cellular distractions, other activities such as eating or adjusting car controls like air conditioning or radio volume can split attention between multiple tasks, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
  4. An effective strategy involves planning ahead before embarking on journeys: pre-setting GPS directions, adjusting mirrors and seat positions, and selecting music playlists beforehand. These measures aim to reduce potential distractions once you hit the road.

Tackling Other Forms of Distracted Driving

Sometimes we overlook simple actions that may pose serious threats when behind the wheel – changing radio stations, reaching for items in the backseat, and more. All of these contribute to distracted driving habits and unsafe conditions.

We must consciously avoid engaging in such behaviors, fully understanding how they impair our ability to concentrate on what’s most important – safely navigating through public roads shared by others, just like us.

 

Key Takeaway: Keep your eyes on the road, not on distractions. Minimize mobile device usage while driving and plan ahead to reduce in-car adjustments. Remember, safe driving isn’t just about you – it’s about everyone sharing the road with you.

Weather Conditions and Safe Driving

The impact of weather conditions on road safety is often underestimated. However, it’s crucial to understand how various climatic scenarios can affect your driving techniques.

Drive Team’s Guidance for Weather-Specific Scenarios

Before embarking on any journey, especially a long one, checking the forecasted weather conditions is advised. This allows you to anticipate potential challenges such as heavy rain or snow that could hinder visibility or cause slippery roads. If severe bad weather is predicted, consider postponing your trip until safer conditions prevail.

Beyond this preemptive step, Drive Team also recommends maintaining an emergency kit in your vehicle at all times. The kit should include essentials like a flashlight with extra batteries and blankets for warmth during winter months along with bottled water and non-perishable food items among others.

Rainy days demand slower speeds due to reduced traction, while snowy ones require increased following distances between vehicles because of possible ice patches. Foggy situations where visibility drops significantly necessitate the use of low beam headlights, which make other drivers aware of your presence without causing glare from high beams bouncing off fog.

Sunrise hours pose a risk too – sun glare temporarily impairs vision when facing directly into sunlight; wearing sunglasses and using visors are effective ways of mitigating risks. In extremely bad weather, such as hurricanes or blizzards leading to flooding or blocked roads respectively, staying informed through local news updates about the current situation becomes vital. Evacuating early when advised by authorities might save lives, as sudden changes in climate can catch you unawares. If you are already en route, finding shelter immediately instead of trying to drive through dangerous circumstances is always the safer choice.

As we dive deeper into safe driving practices, let’s shift our focus onto another key aspect: regular car maintenance.

 
Key Takeaway: 
Don’t underestimate the power of weather on road safety. Check forecasts before trips, pack an emergency kit, and adjust your driving for conditions like rain or snow. In severe situations, heed local news updates and seek shelter if needed.

The Importance of Regular Car Maintenance for Safe Driving

When it comes to safe driving, one cannot overlook the significance of regular car maintenance. A vehicle in optimal condition not only guarantees superior performance but also minimizes the chances of unexpected breakdowns or accidents resulting from mechanical failure.

Maintaining Oil Levels and Quality

One essential aspect of routine car upkeep is checking your oil regularly. The engine’s oil serves multiple functions—it lubricates, cools, cleanses the motor while preventing corrosion. Failing to change your oil can lead to poor engine health or even severe damage over time.

A recommended practice involves inspecting your oil level at least once a month and scheduling an oil change every 3000 miles or three months—whichever arrives first. However, these recommendations may differ depending on the type of vehicle; thus always consult your owner’s manual for exact directions.

Tire Pressure and Tread Depth Matters

Paying attention to tire pressure goes a long way in ensuring better fuel efficiency, improved handling, and extended tire life—all critical aspects when talking about safe driving practices. Bridgestone Tire suggests that tires should be checked monthly with a quality gauge when they are cold as heat generated by driving temporarily increases pressure readings. Moreover, monitoring tread depth, which provides necessary traction for stopping safely under various weather conditions, is equally important.

Servicing Brakes Is Essential

Your brakes are arguably among the most vital safety features within any vehicle, necessitating their regular servicing. Worn-out brake pads could result in decreased stopping power—a major hazard, especially during emergencies requiring quick stops.

To keep them working optimally, it advises having regular brake inspections and replacing brake pads as recommended by the manufacturer. Additionally, being aware of any unusual noises or vibrations while braking and addressing them promptly can prevent potential brake failures.

 
Key Takeaway: 
Don’t skimp on regular car maintenance for safe driving. Keep an eye on oil levels and quality, ensure your tires have the right pressure and tread depth, and never ignore brake servicing. These measures can help prevent accidents due to mechanical failures.

FAQs in Relation to Safe Driving Tips

What are the 3 basic principles of defensive driving?

The three pillars of defensive driving include maintaining focus, anticipating others’ actions, and having a plan to react swiftly.

What are the safe driving tips for employees?

Employees should follow traffic rules, avoid distractions like cell phones, maintain their vehicles regularly, and practice defensive driving techniques.

What are the top 5 mistakes you should avoid when driving?

Avoid speeding, using your phone while behind the wheel, not wearing seat belts, ignoring traffic signals, and poor vehicle maintenance.

What are the six action principles of driving?

The six action principles include scanning effectively for hazards, predicting potential risks, identifying critical situations early, deciding on a safe response, executing maneuvers smoothly, and constantly adjusting to changing conditions.

Conclusion

Understanding the significance of safe driving and defensive practices is key to becoming a responsible driver.

Wearing your seatbelt and heeding traffic regulations are key to making our roads safer for all.

Avoiding distractions while driving is another crucial aspect. Whether it’s putting away your cell phone or refraining from eating at the wheel, every effort counts towards reducing accidents on our roads.

Weather conditions too play a significant role in road safety. Being prepared to navigate through bad weather can help prevent many potential mishaps.

Maintaining your vehicle to ensure it remains reliable on the road is an essential part of safe driving.

If you’re keen on mastering these safe driving tips and more, consider enrolling in DriveTeam’s performance-based training programs. Catered to diverse clients including teenage drivers, police teams, corporations, and seniors alike; we ensure that each participant walks away equipped with essential skills for accident-free journeys. Join us today, because when it comes to road safety – every bit of knowledge matters!

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]]> https://driveteam.com/safe-driving-tips-your-guide-to-accident-free-roads/feed/ 0 7430 Tips for Acing Your Driving Exam https://driveteam.com/tips-for-acing-your-driving-exam/ https://driveteam.com/tips-for-acing-your-driving-exam/#respond Mon, 17 Apr 2023 19:06:38 +0000 https://driveteam.com/?p=7365 You’ve finished your driver education classes and have spent many hours practicing behind the wheel. But as the day of your driving test approaches, you may still become nervous. After all, it is common to fail on the first try. But this doesn’t have to be the case. Taking a little extra time to properly […]

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]]> Taking driving exam

You’ve finished your driver education classes and have spent many hours practicing behind the wheel. But as the day of your driving test approaches, you may still become nervous. After all, it is common to fail on the first try. But this doesn’t have to be the case. Taking a little extra time to properly prepare can help ensure you pass your exam with flying colors.

Tips to become a Confident, Licensed Driver 

Preparing for your driving test should start with taking Drive Team’s Teen Performance Based Driver Education Program (PBDE). This full program provides comprehensive training for teens both off and on the roads, ensuring that they are learning the skills they need to be responsible drivers. Once you’ve completed all four levels of the program, you’ll feel confident and ready to take that driving test.

As your exam day approaches, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind to improve your experience:

  1. Study up on the latest traffic rules. The written test requires you to be knowledgeable about all the latest rules of the road. However, knowing these rules wills will also help you ace the driving portion, too! The more you study the rules, the more they’ll become second nature and you won’t be required to think about them in a split-second situation.
  2. Practice driving as much as you can. Prior to scheduling your driving test, get in as much practice as possible with an experienced driver who isn’t afraid to give you feedback. Listen to the criticism with an open mind so you know what areas you should work on before testing day. Get driving time in on the back roads or in an empty parking to ensure you know how to properly brake, back up and maneuver in tight spots.
  3. Familiarize yourself with your vehicle. If you’ve been using your mom’s SUV to practice driving, be sure to use that same vehicle to take your driving test. You’ll be most comfortable in the car you’re used to driving. Review all the basic controls in the car, like the turn signal and headlights, and adjust the seat for your comfort.
  4. Check and adjust your mirrors. The rearview and sideview mirrors are there for a reason – to help you see traffic behind you and make smart decisions when you’re backing up and changing lanes, two essential parts of your driving test. Your examiner will be looking to see if you are checking those mirrors often.
  5. Watch your speed. When you’re out on the road taking the test, you’ll most likely drive through several different types of neighborhoods and streets to test your ability to adjust. It’s vital that you pay attention to your speed – and the speed limit signs. Streets can change quickly from 35 mph to 25 mph and back again, and you’ll want to make sure that you’re adjusting your speed accordingly and staying within the designated speed limit.
  6. Be aware of other drivers. This tip is just as important after you receive your license as it is during your exam. Although you may be a safe, confident driver, that doesn’t go for everyone else on the road. Always be aware of other drivers around you; check your blind spots and try to watch the road both in front of you and behind you, especially when it’s time to brake.
  7. Get a good night’s sleep. Don’t underestimate the importance of this tip, because being tired can lead to feeling nervous and distracted, which can affect your performance. The night before your driving test, avoid partying and staying up late. Get some rest.
  8. Try to relax. Taking your driving test can certainly be a nerve-wracking experience, but if you’ve completed the proper training and practiced often, you shouldn’t have any problem passing, so try not to obsess over it.

Drive Team offers some of the best teen driving classes to help you feel confident and in control of your vehicle the day of your driving test and as your begin your travels as a new licensed driver. Contact us today to get started.

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]]> https://driveteam.com/tips-for-acing-your-driving-exam/feed/ 0 7365 Driving Laws and Teen Safety https://driveteam.com/driving-laws-and-teen-safety/ https://driveteam.com/driving-laws-and-teen-safety/#respond Mon, 20 Mar 2023 20:18:05 +0000 https://driveteam.com/?p=7350 Teens getting behind the wheel can be a nerve-wracking time for parents due to the potential dangers for young, inexperienced drivers. After all, information from the CDC shows that the risk of motor vehicle crashes is among the highest for teen drivers. In fact, teens aged 16-19 are nearly three times more likely than drivers […]

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]]> teen driverTeens getting behind the wheel can be a nerve-wracking time for parents due to the potential dangers for young, inexperienced drivers. After all, information from the CDC shows that the risk of motor vehicle crashes is among the highest for teen drivers. In fact, teens aged 16-19 are nearly three times more likely than drivers aged 20 or older to be involved in a fatal crash.

Some of the most common teen driving risk factors include:

Cell phones: 12% of teen motor vehicle crashes involved the use of cell phones in the moment leading up to the incident.

Other passengers: Other teens in the car can be highly distracting to the driver, due to goofing off, being rowdy, or simply engaging the driver in conversation that takes his or her mind off the road.

Others types of distraction: Eating, listening to loud music, putting on make-up and adjusting the stereo or other vehicle functions can all take your teen’s focus off of the road, pedestrians and other vehicles.

Risky behaviors: Teens are more likely to engage in a variety of risky behaviors, and that includes when they are driving. Teens have a greater predisposition to speed, drive recklessly and not wear their seatbelts.

Impaired driving: The Insurance Information Institute (III) reports that 15% of motor vehicle crashes involved impaired young drivers aged 16-20.

Inexperience: Teens simply lack the real-life experience that more experienced drivers have, making them more susceptible to driving errors that cause a crash.

Enforce the following rules with your teen driver to help keep them safe:

  • Always wear seat belts;
  • Prohibit cell phone use while driving and limit other distractions like loud music;
  • Set a curfew for driving at night;
  • Encourage safe driving practices like obeying speed limits and avoiding aggressive driving;
  • Get them proper training and practice before allowing them to drive alone;
  • Enforce consequences for breaking these rules;
  • Be a good role model by practicing safe driving habits yourself.

Ohio Teen Driving Laws

Ohio utilizes a multi-stage licensing process to ease teen drivers into becoming safe and responsible drivers. This three-stage process was created in an attempt to reduce the number of fatal teen crashes that occur every year.

Here’s a brief rundown of the steps involved in becoming a licensed driver in the state of Ohio, and the laws that help protect teen drivers:

Temporary Restriction Permit: Also known as getting your “temps,” teens who are 15 and a half years old may apply for a temporary restriction permit identification card (TIPIC). This means teens under 16 years old are allowed to drive with a licensed driver age 21 or older seated in the front passenger seat. These TIPIC holders must have a minimum of 24 hours of classroom learning, eight hours of behind the wheel instruction in driver training and 50 hours of practice driving with a parent or legal guardian before moving on to the next step.

Probationary License: When teens turn 16 and have had their TIPIC for at least six months, they can take the driving test at the local BMV. When they pass, they’ll receive their probationary license which allows them to drive without a parent or guardian. This probationary license comes with some restrictions for the first 12 months. 16-year-old drivers may not drive with more than one non-family passenger unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. Additionally, teens are not allowed to drive between the hours of midnight and 6 a.m., unless they are traveling with a parent or guardian or in an emergency. When they turn 17, they may have no more passengers than the number of seatbelts available in the vehicle. Should a driver under the age of 17 be convicted of a moving violation within the first six months of having their probationary license, the teen will only be allowed to drive with a parent or guardian for the next six months or until they turn 17, whichever happens first.

Full License: Upon turning 18 years old, the teen becomes eligible for a full license. The passenger and nighttime driving restrictions are lifted at this time.

Comprehensive Teen Driving Education from DriveTeam

DriveTeam is here to help your teen become a confident, safe driver. We prepare our students to be successful behind the wheel with a four-level, state-licensed program that far exceeds Ohio’s minimum requirements for driver education. Contact us today for more information!

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]]> https://driveteam.com/driving-laws-and-teen-safety/feed/ 0 7350 DriveTeam Participates in Safe Decisions Week https://driveteam.com/driveteam-participates-in-safe-decisions-week/ https://driveteam.com/driveteam-participates-in-safe-decisions-week/#respond Mon, 19 Sep 2022 20:14:34 +0000 https://driveteam.com/?p=7281 DriveTeam was proud to be part of Safe Decisions Week which helps illustrate the dangers of distracted driving in a hands-on way, and also gives students a chance to practice driving in slippery conditions using our Skid Car. Kudos to Nordonia Hills City School District, State Farm and Ohio Sports Chiropractic and Rehab for teaming […]

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]]> Skid Car

DriveTeam was proud to be part of Safe Decisions Week which helps illustrate the dangers of distracted driving in a hands-on way, and also gives students a chance to practice driving in slippery conditions using our Skid Car.

Kudos to Nordonia Hills City School District, State Farm and Ohio Sports Chiropractic and Rehab for teaming up to help teach kids important safety skills!

Watch the video from News 5 Cleveland here.

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]]> https://driveteam.com/driveteam-participates-in-safe-decisions-week/feed/ 0 7281 Talking to Your Teen About Driving Safety https://driveteam.com/talking-to-your-teen-about-driving-safety/ https://driveteam.com/talking-to-your-teen-about-driving-safety/#respond Fri, 24 Jun 2022 16:27:34 +0000 https://driveteam.com/?p=7244 Teens are new, excited drivers, ready to get out and hit the open road with their friends. They’ve reached a new level of independence, and if you’ve been shuttling your children from activity to activity, you might be ready to hand over the keys and bask in some of your own newfound free time! However, […]

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]]> Parent instructing teen driverTeens are new, excited drivers, ready to get out and hit the open road with their friends. They’ve reached a new level of independence, and if you’ve been shuttling your children from activity to activity, you might be ready to hand over the keys and bask in some of your own newfound free time! However, before your teen gets behind the wheel, it’s important to establish some ground rules and help them create a good foundation for safe driving.   

According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration, motor vehicle crashes are the number one cause of death among 15 to 20 year olds in the United States. Two out of three of those deaths are teens who were simply passengers in a car driven by one of their peers. This is why it’s so critical to set the standard for safe driving early on. Teaching your teen safe driving habits isn’t just good parenting; it can actually save the life of your child and others on the road.   

 

Help Your Teen Practice the Right Way 

Start out by having your teen drive slowly in a safe area, like an empty parking lot or quiet residential street, before allowing them to get out on the busier roads. Let them start and stop, back up, and make turns to get a feel for how the car handles. Practice these skills one at a time so they can build up confidence. Keep initial lessons short, about twenty minutes. This will help ease the frustration you both feel when inevitable mistakes are made! As they improve, lengthen the practice sessions to an hour, and drive at different times of the day and in different types of weather if possible.   

 

Some tips for instructing your teen driver: 

  • Put a “Student Driver” sign in your back window to alert other drivers to have patience and hopefully give your teen some extra space and consideration. 
  • Stay calm. Driving lessons can be frustrating for teen and parent. Expect your child to make mistakes. Use the opportunity to correct them without yelling or berating them. 
  • When serious mistakes are made, pull off the road and talk calmly about what was done wrong and make sure the teen knows how the maneuver should’ve been done.  
  • Be aware of some of the common problems new drivers encounter, like drifting in the lanes, following cars too closely, not checking blind spots, and watching for pedestrians and parked vehicles. If they forget some of these protocols, be sure to gently but firmly remind them.  
  • Set a good example! Teens will be influenced over the course of their lifetimes by observing how their parents drive. When your teen is in the car and you are driving, it’s important to drive safely and adhere to traffic rules so that they model their own driving habits after yours. Also – always buckle up and insist that they do the same. 

Probably the most important thing to remember when teaching your teen how to drive is to keep the communication ongoing and non-judgmental. Of course, if they are doing or about to do something that endangers yourselves or others, then you may need to be forceful and loud to get their immediate attention and avert a crash or injury. But in general, if your child is not endangering anyone, then raising your voice over their mistakes will likely only make your teen more nervous, which can further impair their ability to drive with confidence.  

 

Set Some Ground Rules 

As you embark on this experience together, sit down and have a talk about your expectations and set some ground rules:     

Limit the number of passengers allowed in the car: Teens often want to ride around town together, and those that can drive are often eager to act as chauffeur for friends who can’t, but be aware that passengers can be a major distraction, especially for teens. Until your child has more experience driving, limit the number of friends allowed in the car at any one time.   

Limit night driving: Driving at night can present more risks for all drivers, but especially to teens. In fact, the number of fatal crashes for teens at night is almost double those that occur during daytime hours. Talk to your teen about having a “car curfew”, especially during the first few months of solo driving.   

Have a serious talk about driving under the influence: Even though teens can’t buy or possess alcohol legally, the NHTSA states that one-fourth of teen deaths from car crashes were due to the driver being under the influence. Make sure that your teen knows that if they or the driver they are with have been drinking, they should call you or another trusted adult for a ride, and will not be punished for doing so.  

Make the consequences for breaking the rules very clear: Set the rules for driving early and explain what the consequences will be if they are broken. Many parents even have their teens sign a contract to remind them that driving is a privilege that can easily be revoked.   

DriveTeam offers comprehensive training programs for teen drivers. Our Teen Driving Programs will teach those new to the road the skills they need to be safe drivers for life. Contact us for more information.  

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]]> https://driveteam.com/talking-to-your-teen-about-driving-safety/feed/ 0 7244 Why Summer is the Deadliest Driving Season and How to Stay Safe https://driveteam.com/why-summer-is-the-deadliest-driving-season-and-how-to-stay-safe/ https://driveteam.com/why-summer-is-the-deadliest-driving-season-and-how-to-stay-safe/#respond Thu, 26 May 2022 18:19:55 +0000 https://driveteam.com/?p=7241 Most of us look forward to the summer. It’s a time for fun in the sun, backyard barbecues and parties, lazy days at the beach or pool, road trips and vacations. Teens and young adults especially anticipate summer’s arrival, as it signals freedom from classes and the opportunity to see friends and maybe make a little cash […]

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]]> Teens in carMost of us look forward to the summer. It’s a time for fun in the sun, backyard barbecues and parties, lazy days at the beach or pool, road trips and vacations. Teens and young adults especially anticipate summer’s arrival, as it signals freedom from classes and the opportunity to see friends and maybe make a little cash at that summer job.

However, the freedom of summer can bring dangerous situations to young drivers. It seems like summer should be a relatively safe season to drive since there are no icy, snowy conditions to contend with. But longer days, later nights, and less daily responsibilities mixed with less experience on the road and distracted driving are a deadly combination.

Teens also tend to drive more often during the summer and have more passengers in the car traveling together. The extra opportunities and distractions increase the risk of an accident by around 44%. According to the website We Save Lives, the teen fatality crash rate spikes in summer by 26% compared with other months of the year, with an average of 260 teens killed every month.

Due to these sobering statistics, AAA has coined the days between Memorial Day and Labor Day as the 100 Deadliest Days on the Road to bring awareness to the dangers of the season.

Preparing Your Teen to Drive Safely in Summer

For the first few years after they become licensed, your teen still needs your advice, reminders and support. Studies have shown that when parents set driving rules and consistently enforce them, it results in significantly less risky behavior during a teen’s first few years behind the wheel.

Modeling good driving habits and reinforcing for your teen how to stay safe on the road this summer benefits not only your son or daughter, but also all the other drivers on the road.

As the summer gets into full swing, give your teen a refresher on safe driving habits and set some important ground rules. Examples include:

  • Educating your teen about distracted driving. Make sure your teen understands the dangers of distracted driving. Set rules regarding leaving their cell phone in the glove box while driving, no eating in the car and set a limit on how many passengers are allowed in the vehicle at any time.
  • Creating a “safe driving agreement.” AAA offers an example of what this type of document should include. For instance, the agreement should specifically spell out your driving rules and the consequences if any of these rules should be broken. Wearing seatbelts, following speed limits, avoiding unnecessary trips, as well as absolutely restricting any sort of impaired driving should be key items in the safe driving agreement.
  • Emphasize that you’re available to pick them up without judgement. Let your teen know that if he or she is not in a fit condition to drive or if they are in a position where they would be riding as a passenger with a driver who is intoxicated, that calling you should always be their first choice. Make sure they understand that their safety is far more important than any inconvenience to you.
  • Set a good example. Remember, teens watch and learn driving behaviors by watching their parents. If your teen sees you talking on your cell phone, driving erratically or speeding, don’t expect them to do as you say and not as you do. If you don’t take safe driving rules seriously, neither will they.

Driving is a privilege any time of year, and teens should be encouraged to be cautious every time they they get behind the wheel. Throughout the 100 Deadliest Days, continue to communicate and reinforce the rules you set in place the day your teen passed their driving exam. Additionally, make sure to lead by example as you practice the same safe driving tips you’re encouraging your teen to follow.

A premier driving school like DriveTeam promotes safe teen driving throughout the year. Our teen driving classes ensure everyone stays as safe as possible behind the wheel. Contact us today for more information.

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]]> https://driveteam.com/why-summer-is-the-deadliest-driving-season-and-how-to-stay-safe/feed/ 0 7241 Preparing to Deal with a Roadside Emergency https://driveteam.com/preparing-to-deal-with-a-roadside-emergency/ https://driveteam.com/preparing-to-deal-with-a-roadside-emergency/#respond Wed, 16 Mar 2022 20:58:47 +0000 https://driveteam.com/?p=7225 No one wants to have to deal with a crash, a broken-down vehicle or being stranded by the side of the road. But inevitably, at some point in your life, you will probably find yourself in a situation like this and being prepared can make a huge difference in easing your way through a difficult […]

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]]> car breakdownNo one wants to have to deal with a crash, a broken-down vehicle or being stranded by the side of the road. But inevitably, at some point in your life, you will probably find yourself in a situation like this and being prepared can make a huge difference in easing your way through a difficult experience. 

Prepping Yourself and Your Vehicle for Emergencies 

Keeping your car well-maintained is the first step in avoiding an unexpected, and possibly costly, breakdown on the road. However, sometimes no matter how much you prepare, unanticipated events can cause your vehicle to break down or be rendered inoperable. You may encounter icy conditions, reckless driving by others, an object could fly out of the open truck bed in front of you and crack your windshield, or you might run over something that punctures your tire. Whatever the issue may be, knowing how to handle your car breaking down is important, not only for your own safety, but for others sharing the road during the event.  

Part of prepping your car for emergency situations includes creating an emergency kit. Keep a box in your trunk filled with items like blankets, a change of clothes, a small snow shovel, extra cell phone chargers, water bottles, jumper cables, flares, flashlights, a flat tire repair kit, and a spare tire. You should also have a good snow brush/scraper and extra windshield wiper fluid.  

Also make sure you have your insurance card, driver’s license and a charged cell phone with you at all times when you will be driving. 

Check your route before heading out, check the weather conditions and make sure you have everything you need. Ensure that your car is functioning properly, no warning lights are lit on your dashboard, and that you have plenty of gas and windshield wiper fluid. 

What To Do If Your Vehicle Breaks Down 

The next time you find yourself stranded by the road, follow these vehicle breakdown tips to safely get yourself through it:  

  • Know the common reasons for breakdowns. Simply being aware of some of the common issues a car might have will help you prepare for and handle them should they occur. The majority of minor breakdowns usually involve a dead battery, flat tire, an overheated engine or running out of gas. 
  • Respect your vehicle’s warning signs! If your engine light is on, the windshield is broken, smoke is coming from your engine or you have a flat tire, pull off to a safe spot and stop driving. Driving an impaired vehicle is a danger to yourself and others, as well as a common cause of additional expensive damage to the car. 
  • Get your vehicle out of traffic. Pull off to the side of the road or get to a safe place as soon as possible. Staying in the middle of traffic will make it unsafe for everyone out there. However, if you can’t get your car out of the way, don’t attempt to get out and push it yourself. Wait for help to arrive. 
  • Stay with your car. It might be tempting to leave your car behind while you go get help, but it’s better to have help come to you. If you leave your vehicle unattended, it may end up being towed, costing you lots of unnecessary money and headaches to retrieve it. However, if you are unable to make a call and are within walking distance of help, leave a note on the dashboard explaining the situation and try to get back to your car as quickly as possible.   
  • Make your car as visible as you can. Turn your hazards on the moment your car begins to malfunction so other drivers know to steer clear of you. If you’ve got a roadside emergency kit with you, use some of the warning signals available – like flares or hazard triangles. Commercial motor vehicles are required to place the warning devices at 10’ and 100’ from the vehicle, facing towards approaching traffic and a device 100’ from the rear of the vehicle facing away from approaching traffic.  If you are stopped along a curve or hill, a warning device should be placed 100’ to 500’ of the hillside to warn other drivers that your car is immobile.  These same guidelines are recommended for passenger vehicles as well.   
  • Call roadside assistance if you have it. Many insurance companies and car dealerships offer roadside assistance, so check your policies and know if you have this feature available. Have the number programmed into your phone and written down and kept in your glove box. Roadside assistance can greatly help provide peace of mind to drivers, because they know that should an incident arise, help is just a phone call away!   

It’s important not to panic when your car breaks down. Staying safe should be your top priority as you work towards finding a solution to the problem.  Drive Team offers teen driving classes and corporate driver training to help prepare drivers for any situation on the road. Contact us today for more information.  

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]]> https://driveteam.com/preparing-to-deal-with-a-roadside-emergency/feed/ 0 7225 Ice, Snow, Sleet – Driving in Dangerous Weather Conditions https://driveteam.com/ice-snow-sleet-driving-in-dangerous-weather-conditions/ https://driveteam.com/ice-snow-sleet-driving-in-dangerous-weather-conditions/#respond Fri, 26 Nov 2021 19:19:34 +0000 https://driveteam.com/?p=7175 It’s the time of year where the weather conditions in Northeast Ohio can make traveling any distance treacherous. In fact, according to the Federal Highway Administration, 17% of all vehicle crashes occur during winter conditions.  Even the most experienced driver can feel nervous about venturing out onto a snowy, slushy or icy road. But if you’re a new driver, it may be your […]

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]]> car driving in snowIt’s the time of year where the weather conditions in Northeast Ohio can make traveling any distance treacherous. In fact, according to the Federal Highway Administration, 17% of all vehicle crashes occur during winter conditions. 

Even the most experienced driver can feel nervous about venturing out onto a snowy, slushy or icy road. But if you’re a new driver, it may be your first time getting behind the wheel in these conditions which makes it a particularly dangerous time. It’s important to understand how to be as safe as possible on the roads throughout the winter season to keep yourself and others safe. 

We have a few winter driving tips to ensure that you will have a safe trip no matter what Mother Nature throws at you this season.  

Preparing to Drive in Icy, Snowy and Cold Weather 

Tip #1: Winterize Your Vehicle  

Now is the time to schedule those maintenance tasks you’ve been putting off during the warmer weather. A few of the items you should check include:  

  • Tires and tire pressure  
  • Brakes and brake pads  
  • Battery  
  • Hoses and belts  
  • Headlights and brake lights  
  • Windshield wipers  
  • Heater and defrosters 

Tip #2: Safety Checks Before Each Trip 

Check and prep these items before you head out on the road. 

  • Clean off your backup camera lens, windows, headlights and brake lights and roof 
  • Make sure your tank is at least half full 
  • Check your windshield wiper fluid 
  • Charge your phone and have a charger with you 
  • Have the numbers for a towing service or AAA saved in your phone 
  • Check the weather and your routes before leaving 
  • Visually check your tires 
  • Ensure your seat and mirrors are in the proper position 

Tip #3: Have an Emergency Kit  

Part of prepping your car for winter includes creating an emergency kit just in case your vehicle breaks down or you get caught in the elements. Keep a box in the trunk filled with items like blankets, a change of clothes, a small snow shovel, extra cell phone chargers, water bottles, jumper cables, flares, flashlights, a flat tire repair kit, and a spare tire. You should also have a good snow brush/scraper and extra windshield wiper fluid. 

 

Driving Defensively in Icy Conditions 

Once you have prepared your vehicle, you’re ready to hit the road. Some tips for driving safely: 

Stay calm. 

Panicking when you’re driving in dangerous conditions is not going to help your situation. Try to keep your cool, take a few deep breaths, keep your eyes open and your hands on the wheel.  

Take it Slow. 

When driving on a snowy or icy road, remember to accelerate and decelerate slowly to regain traction and avoid skidding off into the berm. It takes longer to slow down on ice, so be ready as you’re approaching a red light or a stop sign. Use less pressure on the brake pedal to avoid sliding to a stop.   

Use Smooth Breaking. 

Try to avoid sudden movements when you hit an icy spot, which includes accelerating and/or jamming on the brakes. Hitting the brakes too forcefully will cause the car to slide, and you can easily lose control of the vehicle when that happens.   

Turn INTO a slide. 

If you feel your vehicle sliding or fishtailing, slow down by gently reducing your speed as mentioned above. Turn the wheel in the direction the rear of the car is sliding to regain control of the car’s momentum.  

Avoid hills and bridges when possible. 

Plan your route to avoid dangerous hills and bridges. There will be no way to stop yourself from sliding down an icy hill, as gravity will be working against you in this case! Also, remember that bridges and overpasses tend to freeze faster than other roads, even when they’ve been treated with salt.  

Be extra cautious of other drivers.  

You might feel confident enough to drive on icy roads, but others out there may not. Always stay alert and aware of those around you, keeping a safe distance away from other vehicles at all times.   

 

Winter Skills Clinic Offered by DriveTeam  

Drive Team offers a unique four-hour winter skills clinic designed especially for teens. With this hands-on training in our SkidCar and SkidVan, you’ll learn skid avoidance and control, traction control and crash avoidance. We even cover how to properly winterize your car. Slots are filling up, so register today!    

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]]> https://driveteam.com/ice-snow-sleet-driving-in-dangerous-weather-conditions/feed/ 0 7175 Understanding Your New Car and All Its Features https://driveteam.com/understanding-your-new-car-and-all-its-features/ https://driveteam.com/understanding-your-new-car-and-all-its-features/#respond Mon, 04 Oct 2021 16:22:37 +0000 https://driveteam.com/?p=7148 So, you’ve recently attained your full driver’s license and you have a new car that’s yours to drive. Congratulations! A whole new world of freedoms have been opened up for you. (Still looking at vehicles for you or your teen? Read on, we will cover the safety features to look for and how to choose the right car, truck or van for […]

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]]> Car dashboardSo, you’ve recently attained your full driver’s license and you have a new car that’s yours to drive. Congratulations! A whole new world of freedoms have been opened up for you. (Still looking at vehicles for you or your teen? Read on, we will cover the safety features to look for and how to choose the right car, truck or van for new drivers later in this article.)  

Before you go driving off into the sunset in your new ride, it’s important to take some time to learn all the ins and outs of the car. Becoming familiar with all the features not only helps you feel more comfortable when you get behind the wheel, but it also enhances your safety – and the safety of others on the road with you.    

  

The Importance of Familiarizing Yourself with Your New Vehicle 

Today’s cars and trucks are equipped with a variety of safety features, stereo and navigation options, braking systems, traction control, and so much more. The dealership may have spent a few minutes walking you through all those buttons and lights on the dashboard, but do you really understand how all the systems function?   

Being able to react quickly to any situation is key to safe driving. This means understanding how to adapt to changing weather or road conditions at a moment’s notice, as these conditions can significantly impact the ability to drive safely. Before you put the key in the ignition, you should know at a minimum the following:  

  • How to turn on the headlights and windshield wipers,  
  • How the instrumentation panel works,  
  • How to properly adjust your seats and mirrors.   
  • How the backup cameras and sensors work. 
  • How to use your adaptive cruise control for a longer road trip.  
  • How to use any extra safety systems, such as blind spot detection and/or lane departure warning, installed on your car.  

Take some time to test out each of these features and ensure that you can switch them on at a moment’s notice and interpret any alerts you might receive while driving. For more details on specific auto features, check out our articles on the science behind proper seat and mirror position, and everything you need to know about backup cameras and alarms. 

 

Tips for Buying a Car for a Teen  

Looking for a car for your new teen driver? Driving and maintaining their own car teaches teens responsibility, especially if you include them in the buying process and they will be helping with the payments.  

Be sure to do your research first. Your biggest concern with new, inexperienced drivers should be safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has lots of information regarding crash test results on all the different models of cars. Look for cars with 5-star ratings, as these will be the safest options for your teen. Also take a look at the reliability and quality ratings on a website like J.D. Power and Associates.  

Consider the size of the car as well. Bigger is not always better! We recommend avoiding large SUVs or trucks, as these can be more difficult for new drivers to handle. Plus, they are at a greater risk of rollover because of their higher centers of gravity. Likewise, a very lightweight compact car is not the safest option, either. They don’t provide as much protection as a larger car. And it goes without saying that fast sports cars will offer way too much temptation for young drivers to speed. 

Not only will choosing the right vehicle give you extra peace of mind as your teen driver ventures out into the world, a safer car will also help keep your insurance premiums lower, since the accident risk is decreased.   

 

Safety Features to Consider 

The types of safety features available on a vehicle will vary, depending on whether you’re buying a new car or an older car for your teen. Many newer cars have crash-avoidance features and technology to help your teen avoid distracted driving. New cars are also required by law to have front and side airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control.  

There’s nothing wrong with buying an older vehicle as long as it has the necessary features to keep your teen safe behind the wheel. Be sure to look for features like airbags, anti-lock brakes, automatic transmission and daytime running lights.   

 

DriveTeam’s Vehicle Orientation Program  

DriveTeam recently announced our New Vehicle Orientation Program designed to make every driver on the road more knowledgeable and confident in their new vehicle. This one-day, four-hour course features both classroom sessions and real-life driving experiences where your teen will learn everything about their vehicle’s safety systems to the cameras, mirror adjustments, traction control and so much more.  Contact us today to get started.  

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