Be sure your teen understands that traffic violations can include fines, driver improvement classes and suspended or revoked licenses. Driving while intoxicated can result in legal fees, imprisonment, and a permanent criminal record - not to mention death or injury. Go over what to do in the event of an accident, a flat tire, or a car that won't start. Give an auto club membership as a gift. Make sure they know what type of gas to use, how to check oil and fluid levels, how to check air pressure in tires, and how to change a tire.
Parents control the vehicle and insurance.
Take a leadership role and avoid family conflicts by setting ground rules up front. Stress that laws, signals and signs are there to better predict the actions of others. Work with them on time, space needs, and the gaps in traffic when they are entering and leaving it. Emphasize thaet speed and positioning for adjustments are needed within lanes. Teach them to gather and select visual information efficiently.