School is now in session which means that there are young and inexperienced drivers on the road without parents or guardians in the vehicle to make sure their child is aware of potentially dangerous situations or to keep them focused on the road. Thus, it is crucial that not only should your child follow the rules of the road, but that they know how to keep their vehicle road-worthy.
Many student drivers are not yet able to recognize the signs that could indicate automotive repair problems. Thus, it is important to teach them about recommended automotive service items, as well as the mileage and time intervals for oil changes, tire rotations, replacing wipers, changing flat tires, and brake inspections. Most parents fear the phone call coming from a stranded child with a dead battery, clogged air filter, overheating engine, or worse yet, involvement in an auto accident.
Before handing over the keys to the car, make sure your child knows what to do in case of an accident—who to call and where to find the registration and insurance information. Then, make sure you discuss the basic laws of the road and that your child agrees to the following stipulations:
#1: No Cell Phone Use While Driving – Cell phone use while driving reduces reaction time, especially texting, as it involves manual, visual, and cognitive actions. If it is necessary to use a cell phone, pull it over to a safe place.
#2: No Extra Passengers – A published study found that teen drivers were two-and-a-half times more likely to engage in risky behaviors with teen peers in their vehicle and that the risk of a fatal crash goes up in direct relation to the number of teenage passengers.
#3: No Speeding – Speeding is a major factor contributing to fatal crashes. Your child should understand the consequences of not following the posted speed limit.
#4: No Alcohol – It has been reported that drivers between 15 and 20 years old are at far greater risk of death in crashes involving alcohol than adults. Your child should understand the consequences of breaking the law, such as a trip to jail, loss of driver's license, attorney fees, court costs, fines, insurance consequences, and the worst scenario, loss of life in an accident. Academic eligibility for scholarships and college acceptance may also be lost.
#5: Buckle Up – Seat belts help drivers maintain control of their vehicles in emergency situations and are proven to protect and save lives in the event of an accident.
A word of advice: Parents are the main influence in molding their children into safe drivers. Practicing good habits and following the rules speaks louder than words to your child!
Does your student’s vehicle need automotive repair? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Auto Service & Repair to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
School is now in session which means that there are young and inexperienced drivers on the road without parents or guardians in the vehicle to make sure their child is aware of potentially dangerous situations or to keep them focused on the road. Thus, it is crucial that not only should your child follow the rules of the road, but that they know how to keep their vehicle road-worthy.
Many student drivers are not yet able to recognize the signs that could indicate automotive repair problems. Thus, it is important to teach them about recommended automotive service items, as well as the mileage and time intervals for oil changes, tire rotations, replacing wipers, changing flat tires, and brake inspections. Most parents fear the phone call coming from a stranded child with a dead battery, clogged air filter, overheating engine, or worse yet, involvement in an auto accident.
Before handing over the keys to the car, make sure your child knows what to do in case of an accident—who to call and where to find the registration and insurance information. Then, make sure you discuss the basic laws of the road and that your child agrees to the following stipulations:
#1: No Cell Phone Use While Driving – Cell phone use while driving reduces reaction time, especially texting, as it involves manual, visual, and cognitive actions. If it is necessary to use a cell phone, pull it over to a safe place.
#2: No Extra Passengers – A published study found that teen drivers were two-and-a-half times more likely to engage in risky behaviors with teen peers in their vehicle and that the risk of a fatal crash goes up in direct relation to the number of teenage passengers.
#3: No Speeding – Speeding is a major factor contributing to fatal crashes. Your child should understand the consequences of not following the posted speed limit.
#4: No Alcohol – It has been reported that drivers between 15 and 20 years old are at far greater risk of death in crashes involving alcohol than adults. Your child should understand the consequences of breaking the law, such as a trip to jail, loss of driver's license, attorney fees, court costs, fines, insurance consequences, and the worst scenario, loss of life in an accident. Academic eligibility for scholarships and college acceptance may also be lost.
#5: Buckle Up – Seat belts help drivers maintain control of their vehicles in emergency situations and are proven to protect and save lives in the event of an accident.
A word of advice: Parents are the main influence in molding their children into safe drivers. Practicing good habits and following the rules speaks louder than words to your child!
Does your student’s vehicle need automotive repair? Contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Auto Service & Repair to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
