Graduated licensing is saving teen driver’s lives, but even if your state doesn’t have the laws, parents can still enforce rules based on the graduated licensing model. Here are some rules you can establish to get your teen driver off on the right foot:

• Don’t rely completely on driver education to teach your child the rules of the road and good driving skills. Your presence in the car can reinforce good-decision making choices. You can also insist on such rules as constant seat belt use and no use of cell phones while driving.

• Restrict night driving. Late night outings can lead to crashes, so restrict how much driving - and with whom – your teen drives after 9 p.m.

• Restrict passengers. Teen passengers can definitely be a distraction to the newly licensed driver. The best policy is to restrict your teenager from transporting teenage passengers, particularly at night, when the incidence of accident is highest.

• You’re the role model. Your teen will learn by example, so make sure you practice safe driving skills, always wear your seat belt and don’t speed.

• Prohibit drinking. Make it very clear that it is illegal and highly dangerous. Even small amounts of alcohol can impair driving skills in teens.

• Choose safe vehicles. Teenagers should drive vehicles that will reduce their chances of getting in a crash and offer the greatest amount of protection if they are involved in a crash. Small cars don’t offer the best protection, and it is never a good idea to let your teen drive a performance car or a sport utility of truck that may roll over.
  
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