Houston’s population has increased exponentially since 2010. This means the city’s roads and freeways are some of the most crowded and dangerous in the country. Being a safe teen driver in Houston can be a challenge.
Teenagers who are just beginning to drive are at a disadvantage. They’re anxious to start driving and going places, but nearly every street and freeway are clogged with traffic. Most teenagers don’t think safety is important until they’ve been in an accident. Hopefully, that won’t be the case with yours.
Driver’s Ed
Driver’s Ed is a course that teaches people of all ages basic driving and driving skills. While most people take Driver’s Ed in high school, many people don’t drive until after high school and must take it before getting a Texas Driver’s License.
New drivers are taught:
- Traffic and driving laws, including:
- Road signage, including lights
- Correct turning
- Seat belt usage, including children
- Mechanical violations, such as improper maintenance that may lead to an accident, i.e. faulty brakes
- Why insurance is required and important
- Penalties for DUI, driving without a license, or a suspended one
- Other basics
- Safe driving techniques
- Defensive driving
- Minimizing distraction, including mobile devices
Teenagers learning to and starting driving in The Lone Star State must also take the State’s Impact Texas Drivers (ITD) Program to get their license.
Some insurers offer discounts to parents of teenagers and adults who take online driving courses and Driver’s Ed.
Safety And Defensive Driving
One of the most important parts of driving is practicing safety. While safety may be ingrained in those who have been driving for several years, everything is new to a teenage driver.
Teens should know before starting the car:
- You must wear a seatbelt anytime you get behind the wheel or into any motor vehicle
- Follow the speed limit; there is no “allowable” number over the limit
- Never closely follow another vehicle; you may not be able to stop in time
- Know how your car runs, stops, and how long it takes for your brakes to stop the car
- When passing another vehicle, allow additional distance and room
- Be constantly aware of the roadway, and scan frequently
- Focus on your driving—put down the phone
- Don’t drive when upset or angry
- Drive for the road and weather conditions, taking extra care and slowing for rain and/or ice
- If you’re involved in an accident, move to safety to prevent a secondary collision
- Never drive while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol
While some accidents aren’t preventable, understanding driving safety can go a long way in avoiding, minimizing, or preventing one.
Automotive Maintenance And Repair
Any driver should know and understand the car they’re driving. While Driver’s Ed teaches the basics of driving a car, there are other things every teenager needs to know about the vehicle itself. It’s the least fun part of driving. But knowing how to change a tire can save your life.
Before they get on the road—and more importantly, one of Houston’s busy and clogged freeways—any teen driver should know how to:
- Read the dashboard and know what each light means.
- Check the car’s oil pressure, and how to add more. Older cars can burn more oil and run out of oil will not only ruin the car but leave them stranded.
- Check tire pressure and add more air as needed. Tires deflate over time, especially when the weather turns cool.
- Examine tires that have been in use for a long time and check treads. A teen driver should understand what a good tire looks like, and when to look for replacements.
- Find car documentation quickly. Have insurance information and registration where they can get them quickly in case they’re stopped and asked by HPD.
- Learn to safely jump a battery. Keep battery cables in the trunk, toolbox, or storage compartment.
If you have an auto club membership, have them program the number and information into their phone.
Contact a Texas Car Accident Lawyer Today
Car accidents can be devastating, complicated, and expensive. You shouldn’t have to handle everything yourself and risk financial ruin. Get help from someone who understands Houston car accidents and how they’re handled.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, you could be entitled to compensation. Contact Paxton Law Firm today by calling (281) 978-2244 or filling out our online contact form. During your free consultation, you can learn more about your legal options.
