During these uncertain COVID-19 times, many of you may find yourselves with more time on your hands because commutes are less and work is virtual. If you have a teen of the proper age, and has successfully passed the written test for their Connecticut Learner’s Permit, you may be considering taking them out on the road. Here are a few tips you may want to consider. Before you and your teen get behind the wheel, make sure you both know the law surrounding Connecticut’s graduated licensing program. Go over the features and functions of the vehicle with your teen: how to adjust mirrors (rear-view and side), seats, steering wheel; proper foot positioning, windshield wipers, climate controls, and opening the hood, to name a few. At first, drive in an open lot. This way your teen can get used to operating a vehicle without worrying about other traffic on the roadway. Read the full article…

Even though teen driving requires a permit and graduated licensing by the state, it is still a parent’s responsibility to decide when their teen gets behind the wheel. Parental responsibility does not end when the teen has a permit in hand. Recent studies find that teens demonstrate the safest driving behavior when parents remain involved in driver education even after teens are licensed drivers. Your obligation goes beyond helping your child secure a permit and then a license. You must help your teen become a safe driver. It’s a continuing effort, but well worth it. How can you help? • Invest in driver’s education training. • Develop a practice schedule that helps them navigate tricky traffic situations. It is better they do it with you than to try to navigate it on their own. • Stay calm during practice sessions. • Give privileges gradually.