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Teaching your teen to drive

16/03/2021

Tips on teaching your teen to drive safely.

Learning to drive can be a tense time for teens and parents alike. Here’s a brief guide to ensure it’s a safe, productive process for all involved. Remember! Before you start, check that your car insurance policy covers you for L-platers and drivers under 25. If you’re unsure, best to confirm with a simple call to your insurance company. While there could be potential additional costs to add a driver, your wallet will thank you in the event of any mishaps.

Keep lessons short and sweet at first

There’s nothing to be gained from throwing L-platers in at the deep end. Start with short lessons in empty carparks or quiet streets, focusing on one aspect at a time until basic skills become automatic. Discuss each skill and demonstrate it yourself before handing the reins to the learner. From there, you can gradually start going on longer drives with more complex scenarios*.

Maintain clear, calm communication at all times

It’s easy to get frustrated from the passenger seat, but experienced drivers can take a lot of their existing knowledge for granted. Be mindful that learners can be easily overwhelmed and instructor patience is key. Use ‘commentary driving’ to proactively communicate what’s happening inside and outside the vehicle. Also use positive reinforcement as much as possible*.

Book lessons with a professional instructor

It’s possible to be both a good parent and a good driver, but not a great driving teacher. It’s then important to supplement your teen’s driving hours with formal lessons from a licensed instructor. As well as giving parents welcome respite from the stress of the passenger seat, it allows learners to get comprehensive training from a professional ahead of their driving test.

Note: Check policy specifics with your insurer to know exactly what you’re covered for. Remember that an instructing driver must have a full Australian driver’s license. Also ensure the vehicle you’re using is roadworthy and safe to drive with clearly displayed L-plates during lessons.

Regardless of our own driving expertise, it’s important to have the right motor insurance coverage whenever you or your family members are behind the wheel. You can also refer to the Product Disclosure Statement for more information. Talk to us today to find out how you can consolidate your Comprehensive Car Insurance and banking in one place. To find out more, you can visit www.newcastlepermanent.com.au/insurance or call us on 13 19 87.

Please note the information in this article is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any decisions based on this article.

*12 tips for better learner supervision - NSW Roads and Maritime Services

This article has been prepared by Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL 234708 (“Allianz”). Information contained in this article is accurate as at 16 03 2021 and may be subject to change. In some cases information has been provided to us by third parties and while that information is believed to be accurate and reliable, its accuracy is not guaranteed in any way. Any opinions expressed constitute our views at the time of issue and are subject to change. Neither Allianz, nor its employees or directors give any warranty of accuracy or accept responsibility for any loss or liability incurred by you in respect of any error, omission or misrepresentation in this article. 

Newcastle Permanent Building Society Limited arranges this insurance as agent for the insurer Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL No 234708, acting under our own AFS Licence. Policy terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply. Before making a decision, please consider the Product Disclosure Statement and key facts sheets available on this website, by calling 13 19 87 or from any branch. The relevant Target Market Determination is available by calling 1300 493 824. If you purchase this insurance, we will receive a commission that is a percentage of the premium. Ask us for more details or see our Financial Services Guide before we provide you with services. Any links to third party websites are for your information only and we do not endorse their content.

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