Parent-Teen Driving Contracts Protect Against Alaska Car Accidents

Getting a driver’s license is a rite of passage for teens in Alaska, but it fills many parents with dread at the same time. They may already know that motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death for teens, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Approximately 2,800 kids aged 13 to 19 years old are killed and another 227,000 are injured in auto crashes every year.

While some might blame these casualties on risky behavior, one of the key issues for teen drivers is experience. They need as much as possible, and it is up to parents to ensure they get it. One way to help your child is to insert some structure into learning to drive through a parent-teen driving contract. You have obligations under the agreement, too, so you will be able to teach by example how to avoid car accidents in Anchorage.

Parent-Teen Driving Agreement

The CDC provides some guidance in creating a contract to govern how the child will gain important driving experience with the support of the parents. Key sections include:

  • The teen promises to follow all Rules of the Road and obey traffic controls.
  • The teen vows to eliminate all distractions and interference that might affect driving capabilities, such as cell phone use.
  • The teen assures parents that they will never use drugs or alcohol while driving and will not get into a car with someone else who has.
  • The teen has general responsibilities, such as only taking the car with permission and not allowing other teens to drive the vehicle.

There should be penalties for breaking the rules, such as grounding your teen from using the car for a designated time. In addition, you could include restrictions that are subject to change as your teen gains experience. Initially, you might have rules on not driving at night and prohibiting teen passengers, adjusting them as necessary.

Advise Your Teen on What to Do After an Accident

If your child is involved in a crash, the chaos and confusion are overwhelming. Teens also have little experience dealing with the aftermath of a traffic accident, so some tips will help them get through.

  • Getting proper medical care is a top priority, so head to the ER or doctor’s office right away.
  • Exchange driver’s license and insurance information, but do not engage in conversation.
  • Never discuss fault or how you think the crash happened.
  • Take pictures of the scene, intersection, traffic signals, lane markings, and damage to vehicles.

 

Discuss Legal Remedies With an Alaska Car Accident Lawyer 

It is important for your teen to know all the safety tips about avoiding crashes, but advice on what to do after a collision is also essential. For more information on your options, please contact Power & Power Law to set up a free case review. You can reach our offices in Anchorage, Alaska, by calling 907-222-9990 or visiting our website. We can provide details after learning about your claim.