Five safe driving essentials Valley parents should teach their teens

Cristina Perez Hesano

Submitted photo

A teen’s driving habits often mirror what they see at home. Parents who consistently model safe, responsible driving play a powerful role in shaping their teens’ behavior behind the wheel.”

For many teens, getting a driver’s license is more than just a milestone — it’s a symbol of freedom, independence and stepping into adulthood. But behind the excitement lies a serious reality: with newfound freedom comes real risk.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, teen drivers ages 16 to 19 are three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash at night compared to adults ages 30 to 59, measured per mile driven. And the danger spikes even higher during the summer, when teens are 20% more likely to be involved in a fatal collision.

As parents, mentors and community leaders, we have a unique opportunity to empower the next generation of drivers with life-saving knowledge. Here are five essential tips to help your teen drive smarter and safer, especially when it matters most.

Set clear boundaries and expectations

Establishing clear structure is one of the most effective ways to help teens grasp the seriousness of being behind the wheel. Implementing a driving agreement with clearly defined rules and consequences sets expectations early and creates accountability. Consider setting nighttime driving restrictions and limiting the number of passengers — both proven strategies to reduce distractions and lower crash risk. Curfews and occupancy limits may seem strict, but they are practical tools that significantly improve teen driver safety. By creating thoughtful boundaries, parents and guardians can help young drivers build safe, responsible habits from the start.

Be a leader for your learner

A teen’s driving habits often mirror what they see at home. Parents who consistently model safe, responsible driving play a powerful role in shaping their teens’ behavior behind the wheel. Wearing your seatbelt every time, avoiding distractions like cell phone use and following traffic laws are not just good practices, they’re daily lessons. When teens regularly observe conscientious driving, they’re far more likely to adopt those same habits, reinforcing safety through example rather than just instruction.

Create a plan for the unknown

Being in an unfamiliar area or encountering unexpected situations can be challenging for new drivers. Before going to a new location, discuss the route, potential issues and what to do in case of an emergency. Encourage teens to stay calm, pull over safely if needed and contact a trusted adult if they feel uncomfortable. Practicing these scenarios can build confidence and preparedness.

Understand the duties of being a passenger

If a teen happens to be riding with another new driver, they also play a key safety role in the car. Passengers should avoid distracting the driver with loud conversations, sudden movements and showing them photos or videos on a phone. Encourage passengers to speak up if they feel unsafe and find alternative transportation if necessary. Being a responsible passenger contributes to overall road safety.

Establish an accident plan

In the unfortunate event of a car accident, proper documentation is essential. Keeping a checklist in the vehicle can help guide the driver through a stressful situation with clarity and confidence. This checklist should include steps such as collecting the personal and insurance information of all parties involved, filing a police report, obtaining witness statements if available, taking photographs of the scene and maintaining detailed records of any medical treatment received. Auto accidents can have far-reaching consequences — financially, emotionally and psychologically — so having an advocate to help pursue justice and fair compensation can be an important step in the recovery process.

By setting clear expectations, modeling safe driving habits and preparing for potential incidents, teens are better equipped to navigate the responsibilities of the road. Ongoing support and open communication from parents play a vital role in reinforcing positive behaviors and helping young drivers build a strong foundation for a lifetime of safe and responsible driving.

Editor’s note: Cristina Perez Hesano is founding partner of Perez Law Group, PLLC in Glendale. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.