KEEP YOUR DRIVING GRANDCHILD SAFE
by Katrina Hayday Wester
In a recent survey conducted by the Chrysler Group, a division of DaimlerChrysler AG, the automaker stated that six out of ten parents (59%) say the number one health and safety risk facing their teenager is driving safety, and seven out of ten parents (68%) believed that car crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers. Do you agree with these numbers?
What can grandparents do to prevent their grandchild from being a statistic? Here are some
suggestions if you are raising your grandchild:
Limit the number of unsupervised driving hours.
Prohibit night-time driving unless it’s a necessity.
Limit the number of passengers.
Insist on the use of seat belts.
Enroll them in driver’s education courses.
Set a good example with your own driving – i.e. don’t use your cell phone while you’re driving, don’t apply makeup, drink coffee, etc.
If the minimum age in your state is low, consider raising it for your
grandchildren.
Ask questions and understand what your grandchild is doing while in the car.
Prohibit additional items such as kickers or additional stereo speakers.
Track their usage carefully.
Discuss the dangers of speeding, drag racing, etc.
Respect and enforce a no-questions asked rule if your grandchild calls to be picked up rather than drive themselves home.
If one of these steps helps save your grandchild’s life, wasn’t it worth it?
Note: Even if you aren't raising your grandchild you could
discuss some of these tips with your grandchild's parents, or forward this
article to them to read.
