Car accidents are the leading cause of death and disability in teens so it is something I regularly talk about with my teen patients. I have discovered that many teens drive before they get their permit. I find this disturbing so I thought I would review the reasons not to let your teen drive before they get their permit.
1. There are significant consequences if you get caught. My patients have told me of large fines and the inability to get their license before age 18.
2. Your teen is not covered by your insurance until they get their permit. If something happens you are responsible for the bill. It is possible that the insurance might still cover it but then the insurance company will increase your rates (a lot! Teens are expensive!) As an aside insurance companies like to be notified when your teen is driving with a permit but your rates don't go up until they get their license.
3. It is against the law! In my mind this is the most important. If you as a parent let them break the law in this case what message are you sending them? Do you think they are going to follow all the traffic laws when they are licensed and driving without you? Teens are more likely to follow the example you set than what you tell them so remember that when you text while driving speed, or drive aggressively!
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