Your teen has finally started driving! Yes, they are growing up and have hit that milestone. It’s worth celebrating, but I know it’s also terrifying for you, Mom. Your child is growing up, and you’re so nervous about them getting behind the wheel that you don’t even think about the car, just your baby. Your child’s safety is the most important thing, but when your teen starts driving, there are steps you can take to protect your car as well.

Prepare Your Teen

The best way to protect both your teen and your vehicle is to make sure your child is prepared to drive. This doesn’t just mean memorizing the rules of the road but also developing the right mindset behind the wheel.

First, ensure they are familiar with your car’s features and functions. Start with the basics. Such as the brakes and turn signals, then proceed to more detailed aspects, including the emergency blinkers and warning lights. This builds a foundation for vehicle safety and care.

Avoid Parking Lot Damage

Your teen will likely start driving in a parking lot to learn the basics, and this is an important place to learn how to avoid damage. A common accident in parking lots is parking too far up in a spot and hitting the curb.

There are plenty of hazards in parking lots, so teach your teen to avoid parking lot scrapes on your car. The best way to learn is to practice, so go to a parking lot with few cars, and practice away from others. Help your child understand the basics of maneuvering the vehicle and parking. This way, they won’t be surprised by the distances of other vehicles or curbs that can damage the car.

Build Confidence With Backup Assistance

Backup assistance includes rearview mirrors and backup cameras if the car is equipped with them. Whatever you have, be sure to work with your teen to grow their confidence in reversing the car. If they don’t know how to reverse properly, they risk damaging the vehicle or getting into an accident.

Building your teen’s confidence will help them know what to do when reversing in different areas. Once again, an empty parking lot is a great place to practice, as it provides a distraction-free environment without interruptions from other vehicles. Have them practice reversing into a spot and then turning while reversing to get used to the movement. This will protect your teen and vehicle on the road.

Set Boundaries With the Car

Teens often want to run before they walk, so setting ground rules for the car is crucial to protecting them and your vehicle. When they are driving with a learner’s permit, reinforce the rule that they cannot drive alone without a licensed adult and that the number of friends in the vehicle is limited. Another good rule to follow is to keep phones out of the car while they’re learning.

Teaching your teen to drive responsibly isn’t just about road safety; it’s also about preserving your car and helping them develop habits that will last a lifetime. By following these tips, your teen can protect your car while gaining confidence as a new driver. So, take a deep breath, and get ready to help your child through this milestone.