3 Simple Ways To Set A Good Driving Example To Your Kids

As your kids grow older, it’s only natural that they want to spread their wings and taste a little more freedom. The easiest way for them to do this is by passing their driving test and getting their own set of wheels. While you might be more than happy for them to head off on the open road, there will be a part of you that is naturally worried. What if they get into an accident? Will they fall foul of the law? Will they be safe? The person your offspring looks up to for their driving habits will be you. This is why you need to set a safe and responsible example early on by showing off your defensive driving credentials.

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Road Rage Is A No No

It doesn’t matter how infuriating the slow driver is in front of you, it’s crucial that you don’t lose your temper. Getting irate while behind the wheel is an inappropriate example to set for your kids. You don’t want unruly road rage fanatics in your house. Instead, always remain calm but explain how the driver in front of you is at fault. This can help your little darlings understand that other road users may lack driving skills, and that they need to be aware of them. Getting frustrated does no one any good. It can actually make you more unsafe and less alert while in control of your vehicle.

Car Maintenance

It’s important to set a good example when it comes to maintaining your vehicle. Your motor should remain clean inside and out. Your car needs to be treated with respect. You don’t expect your son or daughter to borrow your car for a trip to the cinema with pals only to see it a mess inside.

Make sure your bull bars are fitted correctly on your SUV. Ensure that your fluid levels are adequate and encourage your kids to come out and watch you check your car tyres, condition, tread and pressures, from a young age. The more they know about basic car checks, the safer they will be when they buy their own car. Have breakdown recovery and always keep blankets and water in your car for emergencies.

Be Legal

Just because your child is running late for their martial arts lesson doesn’t mean you should be breaking the speed limit to get them there. This sets a bad example, no matter how much they are fretting in the passenger seat. It’s always better to turn up at a destination safely rather than not at all. Be wary of other road users and pedestrians and stick to the four second rule. Being four seconds behind a vehicle in front will give you adequate braking distance should it be needed. Always look for hazards and point them out to your offspring as you drive. By teaching them good habits from an early age, you can be sure of nurturing a safer driver in your home.

By setting a good example as a defensive driver, you can help your kids become responsible road users.

This is a collaborative post.