5 Essentials to Get in Place When You Have a New Driver in the Family

Having a new driver in the family can be exciting because you have someone you can share your driving experiences with. Unfortunately, it can also be nerve-wracking as you will often be more worried about the safety of your loved one while on the road.

The good news is that you can do several essential things to ensure you set your new driver up for success behind the wheel. Here are six of them. 

The first thing you should do to get a new driver ready is to get the right car. Of course, the right car isn't just any vehicle; it needs to be safe, reliable, affordable, and easy to maintain. 

Often, you might find yourself disagreeing with the new driver, especially if they are concerned about the power and performance of their first ride. Tempting as it can be, you shouldn't buy them a sports car or that high-performance vehicle they desire as their first. 

Instead, get them a vehicle with performance and speed that matches their driving skills and experience level. This way, you will keep them safer on the road and help them avoid getting into road accidents. And since most insurance providers charge higher premiums for sports cars, you could also save some money in the long run.

Car insurance is a compulsory requirement in most states in the US. But, it can be costly for new drivers, especially those under 25. This is because most auto insurers see first-time drivers as high-risk, thus, charge high premiums. 

Fortunately, with a bit of digging, you can find affordable car insurance for new drivers without compromising quality. An insurance comparison resource, such as Cheap Insurance, can go a long way in helping you lower your financial burden while providing peace of mind to your new driver.

When looking for a suitable policy, it is best to compare quotes from different insurers to find the best deal. Also, check the insurance policy's terms to ensure it covers all your teenage driver's needs well.

Things happen when drivers least expect it. Therefore, it would help if new drivers had the right tools on hand to deal with unexpected situations.

Significantly, a new driver's car must have a first aid kit with bandages, gauze pads, sterile wipes, and scissors. This will come in quite handy in the event of an accident. 

Other essential car tools to get a first-time driver include a flashlight with extra batteries, jumper cables, a portable phone charger, a life harmer, a tow strap, and a spare tire. Most of these tools are inexpensive and available in your local hardware store or auto shop.

New drivers, especially teens, are notorious for their risk-taking behavior while driving. They tend to speed, violate traffic rules and make careless decisions that could endanger them. 

As a parent, you are responsible for setting ground rules for driving and enforcing them strictly. Your rules should basically include the dos and don'ts of driving. 

Among the most important rules are obeying all traffic laws and following the speed limit. You should also instruct your young driver never to drink and drive, as this could have deadly consequences. Most importantly, caution them against distractions like cell phones and loud music while driving.

A defensive driving course is a unique way to teach new drivers the basics of safe driving and help them improve their skills behind the wheel. The course is typically designed for beginners but could also be a helpful refresher course for older drivers who want to improve their skills.

Even better, many insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who complete a defensive driving course. That means this could be a win-win scenario for you and your new driver.