Safety Tips for Teenage Drivers Every Texas Parent Should Know
Getting a driver’s license is a major milestone for teenagers—but it also comes with serious responsibility for parents. Teen drivers are among the most at-risk groups on Texas roads, with higher crash rates than any other age group. In fact, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reports that thousands of accidents involving teen drivers occur each year, many of which result in serious injuries or fatalities.
As personal injury attorneys who’ve worked with families affected by teen driving accidents, we know that knowledge and preparation can save lives. That’s why we’ve put together this guide of essential safety tips every Texas parents should share with their teenage driver.
1. Parents should Lead by Example
Parents are the most influential driving instructors their children will ever have. If you speed, check your phone while driving, or roll through stop signs—your teen will see that behavior as acceptable.
What to Do:
Practice defensive driving in front of your teen. Always wear your seatbelt, avoid distractions, and obey traffic laws. Talk openly about how you make driving decisions and explain why safety always comes first.
2. Enforce a Zero-Tolerance Policy for Phones
Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents involving teens. Texting, checking social media, or even using navigation apps can take a teen’s focus off the road for just a few seconds—enough time to cause a serious crash.
Texas law bans texting while driving, and for drivers under 18, all handheld phone use is prohibited.
What to Do:
Use apps or phone settings that block texts and notifications while driving. Set strict rules about phone use, and model that behavior yourself. Encourage your teen to pull over in a safe place if they need to make a call or check directions.
3. Limit Night Driving
Statistics show that crash risk increases dramatically at night, especially for teen drivers. Poor visibility, fatigue, and limited driving experience can make nighttime driving dangerous.
Texas law restricts drivers under 18 from operating a vehicle between midnight and 5 a.m. during the first 12 months unless for work, school, or an emergency.
What to Do:
Limit your teen’s night driving to necessary trips, and consider setting an earlier curfew than state law requires. Remind your teen that night driving requires extra caution—even on familiar roads.
4. Restrict Passengers During the First Year
Teen drivers are far more likely to be distracted when driving with friends. The risk of a fatal crash increases with each additional passenger.
Under Texas’ Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program, new drivers under 18 may not carry more than one passenger under 21 (who isn’t a family member) during the first 12 months of driving.
What to Do:
Talk to your teen about the risks of driving with friends. Reinforce the importance of staying focused and resisting peer pressure while behind the wheel.
5. Emphasize the Dangers of Speeding
Speeding is one of the top causes of teen car accidents in Texas. Many teens underestimate the time and distance required to stop a speeding car or maneuver around a hazard.
What to Do:
Teach your teen to always follow posted speed limits—and to slow down in bad weather, construction zones, and school areas. Remind them that arriving late is better than not arriving at all.
6. Never Drink and Drive—And Watch for Others Who Might
Even though it’s illegal for anyone under 21 to consume alcohol, underage drinking still occurs—and so do tragic accidents involving impaired teen drivers. Teens must also be alert for other impaired drivers, especially late at night or during holidays.
What to Do:
Establish a no-judgment rule: if your teen finds themselves in a situation where alcohol is involved, they can always call you for a ride. Provide education about the consequences of impaired driving, both legal and physical.
7. Create a Parent-Teen Driving Contract
One of the most effective tools you can use is a written agreement that outlines your expectations and your teen’s responsibilities.
A contract can cover:
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Seatbelt use at all times
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No phone or texting while driving
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Speed limits and curfews
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Passenger restrictions
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Reporting accidents or tickets
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Consequences for breaking the rules
What to Do:
Have your teen sign the agreement and keep a copy visible in the car. Revisit the contract regularly and adjust as your teen gains more experience.
8. Know the Legal and Insurance Ramifications of Accidents
Many parents don’t realize that parents can be held financially responsible if their teen causes an accident. Additionally, your auto insurance premiums may rise significantly after an at-fault crash.
If your teen is injured in a car accident caused by someone else, a Texas personal injury lawyer can help you seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional trauma.
What to Do:
Make sure your insurance policy provides adequate coverage and consider adding uninsured/underinsured motorist protection. If your teen is involved in a crash, consult with an attorney early to understand your legal rights.
Final Thoughts: Teaching Teens to Drive Smart Saves Lives
Driving is a privilege, not a right—and with it comes enormous responsibility. By taking the time to educate your teen, model good behavior, and set clear expectations, you’re setting them up for success and helping prevent tragedy on Texas roads.
Whether you’re preparing your teen to drive or you’ve already handed them the keys, it’s never too late to have meaningful conversations about safety. With the right preparation and support, your teen can become a confident, cautious, and responsible driver.