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OUR BLOG

03/14/2023
Due to their inexperience, teen drivers are more vulnerable on the road. So, to keep your child safe behind the wheel, follow the tips listed in this post by Oil Options in Knightdale.

If your child has reached the age to drive, one of your biggest concerns might be keeping them safe on the road. So, before handing them the keys to the family car, it's vital to teach them how to be responsible drivers. Whether it's teaching the basics of car maintenance, setting a good example, or enrolling them in a driver education course, this post will provide guidance on raising safe teen drivers. That said, let's kick things off with the recommendations listed below!

Keep your engine healthy and ready to run by feeding it with the best synthetic oil in Knightdale. For advice on what formulas meet your vehicle's needs, get in touch with the oil pros at Oil Options at (919) 618-9623. Don't forget to explore the complete line of AMSOIL products by visiting the online store.

How to Help Teen Drivers Stay Safe on the Road

Set a Good Example

The first and arguably most important thing you can do for your teen is to model safe driving behaviors. That means correcting your bad habits at the wheel and setting a good example. You can, for instance, avoid checking your phone while driving. Likewise, obey traffic signs and remain calm in stressful driving situations. Remember, your child will most likely emulate your behavior on the road. Thus, it's best to show them safe and attentive driving practices before they get their driving permit or license.

Teach Them About Car Maintenance

Your teenager may be eager to hit the road and gain that sense of independence. But as fun and empowering as driving is, it's also a big responsibility. That is why you should equip your child with the knowledge and skills to maintain a car properly. To that end, show them how a car works and how to check its engine fluids, tire pressure, and other basic inspections. Learning these things will keep them from turning into neglectful, irresponsible owners. Plus, understanding and performing maintenance tasks on their own will help them stay safe on the road.

Practice in a Safe Space

Seeing your child driving for the first time can be nerve-wracking. However, you should ensure a low-stress learning experience for them. With that in mind, take them to a parking lot so they can practice. That way, your teen can drive in a controlled, low-risk environment. Another good idea is to bring boxes or cones to the parking lot. These items can serve as reference points for your child to practice parking, turning, and backing up. Once they show control over the vehicle in the parking lot, take them to practice in quiet, familiar neighborhoods.

Don't let mechanical friction and extreme heat damage your engine. Instead, protect it with advanced formulas such as AMSOIL's Signature Series 10W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil. To get this and other quality oils, call Oil Options in Knightdale at (919) 618-9623 or visit AMSOIL's online store.

Choose a Safe Car for Them

Are you planning to buy your child a vehicle? Choosing the right car can greatly improve their driving safety. Like any other young driver, they will probably beg you for a sports car or an SUV. Yet, these types of rigs are not safe for teen drivers. So, when choosing a car for your teen, consider safety, reliability, and affordability factors. That means narrowing your options to cars with 5-star crash test ratings. Additionally, look for vehicles with electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, and multiple airbags.

Show Them the Car's Controls

Whether your child drives the family car or another, please review the main controls with them. To that end, introduce them to the instrument panel. Then, show them how to adjust their seat, headrest, and steering wheel. It's also vital for them to know the meaning behind the dashboard lights and gauges. Understanding the vehicle's controls will help them feel more confident and safe when operating the rig. Plus, this knowledge will set them up for success in their road test.

Enroll Them in a Driver's Education Course

As you know, a driver's education certificate is required to apply for a learner permit in North Carolina. Given that regulation, you must enroll your teen in a driver education course. Even if it wasn't mandatory, a driving course is a great way to equip your teen with the fundamentals of driving. Additionally, instruction can help them gain confidence and build safe driving habits. So, don't think twice about enrolling your child in a driving course.

As you know, your engine depends on fresh, clean oil to run smoothly. If it has been a long time since your last oil service, please call Oil Options at (919) 618-9623 and ask for the top synthetic oil change in Knightdale. Also, stop by the online store to explore the complete line of AMSOIL products.