Your baby has grown up and is now ready for his driver’s license, but first, let’s get that permit. While it can be scary to know that your teen is on the road, let’s first say a prayer for the other drivers as well. They’re just as scared of your teen driver on the road as you are. Today’s post comes courtesy of Toyota and their 2017 Toyota Prius Prime, which I test drove for an entire week and almost didn’t return.
I vividly remember when my son Kyle, at the age of 15, asked if he could get his learner’s permit. My automatic response was, “Let’s wait until you’re 16,” in the hope that he would forget. However, at the age of 16, he reminded me and I had no choice but to take him to the DMV to get his permit. After successfully passing his written and vision tests, he was issued a driver’s permit. It was then time to go out and purchase a car, which we did, and he’s been successfully driving for almost a year; however, with someone going along for the ride, never by himself. In just a few months, he will become a fully licensed driver and will be driving on his own. Driving on your own is quite different than having someone with you, so there are a few tips that I want to share with him and those other new teen drivers to stay safe while driving.
Adjust your car settings before you drive
Before you even move out of gear, make sure that your mirror, seats, and anything else that you may need are adjusted before you start driving. Set your favorite radio station and your navigation before you leave. Always remember to keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the steering wheel at all times.
Always Buckle Up
It’s not only the law; many lives have been saved through the proper use of safety belts. Not only should you be buckled up for safety, but you should also require the other passengers to do so as well. There is a proper way to wear your seatbelt. Shoulder belts should be across the middle of your chest, away from your neck, while lap belts should be across your hips and below your stomach.
Don’t text/talk/snap and drive
Distracted driving causes accidents. Do all of your talking, texting, snapchatting, generally anything related to your cellphone and social media BEFORE you start driving. Let calls go to voicemail if you don’t have Bluetooth connectivity in your vehicle. If you must take a call, find a safe place to stop, pull over, and answer or return the call.
Be mindful of road conditions
Always follow the speed limit, but adjust your speed when road conditions aren’t optimal; that is, rain, snow, sleet, ice or fog. When visibility is poor, remember to double the required distance between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead of you, and remember to never drive whilst tired, especially at night.
Practice situation awareness
Be mindful not only of other drivers around you but also of pedestrians. Never assume that the drivers around you are paying attention. Remember your driver’s training. Always come to a complete stop at stop signs, and look to your left and right before proceeding at intersections. Toyota cars, such as the Prius, come standard with safety features such as blind spot monitoring and lane departure warnings. While it’s OK to use them, they should not be a substitute for you not paying attention to your surroundings.
Keep your vehicle road ready
Always make sure that you keep up with your car’s scheduled maintenance according to your owner’s manual. Rotate your tires and make sure that they are properly inflated. Be sure to check your spare as well. Change your oil and air filter, replace your wiper blades, and check your battery. Don’t forget to keep your vehicle insured and licensed in accordance with your state regulations.
If you’re looking for a safe and reliable vehicle for your teen, then look no further than the new Toyota Prius Prime. I test drove this beauty for a week and I was pleasantly surprised. With standard safety features such as blindspot monitoring, lane departure alert with steering assist, and much more, this will help keep your teenager safe and aware.
The Prius Prime had one of the biggest multimedia display that I have ever seen in any vehicle. At 11.6 inches, you can’t miss a thing, and it acts just like your smart phone. Pinch and zoom in and out, tap and swipe, it’s just so easy to use and all in full color.
Don’t underestimate its size either. I was able to fit a full size car seat with still lots of room to spare.
What I especially loved about the new Prius Prime was its easy charging system, and the cable that comes with your car. As a hybrid, you’re able to use both gas and electricity. You can charge at any charging system that is compatible, and I was able to recharge at both my local Walmart and at IKEA. You’re even able to charge it at home using a standard electrical outlet. Your new Prius Prime, however, comes with 100 days or up to $100 of complimentary free charging (whichever comes first) at ChargePoint stations. You can learn more at chargepoint.com/drivers/offers/toyota.
Hopefully with my tips your teenager will have a safe driving experience.
