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Parents have several tools at their disposal to help keep teen drivers safe. In this article we will cover many of the options that parents should consider prior to purchasing a vehicle or even after this step has been taken. So, what exactly are some of these technologies and how do they work?
What Technologies are Available When it Comes to Safety in Teen Drivers?
Let’s first look at some of the technologies that are currently available and would work well when it comes to keeping teenage drivers safe.
Before we list them, it’s important to note that technology can be a useful tool in keeping teen drivers safe, but it should not replace the crucial role that parents and guardians play in monitoring and educating their teen drivers.
As well as that, don’t forget to always keep an honest and open line of communication with your teen so that they don’t think you are monitoring them without their consent.
- Driving Monitor Devices
- Smartphone Apps
- Rearview Cameras
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list, and parents are encouraged to do thorough research on this topic, as it could help them avoid liability in unfortunate situations and keep their teens protected from harm.. Let’s now take a look at how each of these pieces of technology can be used as a helpful tool when it comes to keeping your teen safe as they drive.
Driving Monitor Devices
Driving monitoring devices are small, GPS-enabled devices that can be installed in a vehicle to monitor a teen driver’s habits. These devices can track a variety of metrics, including speed, braking, acceleration, and phone use while driving. Parents can also set up geo-fencing . This allows for location boundaries and for monitoring where their teens go when they drive.The data is typically sent to a smartphone app or web portal, where parents can access it and receive notifications if their teen engages in dangerous driving behaviors.
Monitoring devices can also provide feedback and coaching to help improve driving habits. These devices can be an effective tool for parents to help keep their teen drivers safe on the road and promote responsible driving habits.
Smartphone Apps
Smartphone apps are another tool that can be used to help keep teen drivers safe on the road. Many of these apps allow parents to track their teen’s driving and receive notifications if they engage in dangerous behaviors like texting while driving, speeding, or sudden braking.
Some apps also provide real-time feedback on driving habits, helping teens improve their skills and avoid bad habits. Others offer additional features like geofencing, which can be used to set boundaries and receive notifications if the teen drives outside a designated area.
Smartphone apps can be an effective tool for parents who want to stay informed about their teen’s driving habits and help promote responsible and safe driving practices.
Rearview Cameras
Other options parents should consider are the safety features available in the vehicle they chose for their teen driver. Teens generally have limited experience maneuvering a vehicle, and this often leads to accidents. A common feature that can aid them in driving is a rearview camera. Since cameras are designed to improve visibility when backing up or maneuvering a vehicle, these cameras make it easier to avoid obstacles, pedestrians, or other vehicles while reversing.To a new driver this can be quite a valuable vehicle capability. Parents should consider purchasing an auto or encouraging their teens to purchase an auto with a rearview camera. There is also the option to add a review camera, even if the vehicle does not have one installed. These camera are often inexpensive and relatively easy to install as a do-it-yourself project, or a professional installer may be preferred.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Parents should consider the full array of safety options available in the vehicle their teen will drive. An important option to consider is an Advanced Driver Assistance System. These are technologies designed to improve the safety and efficiency of driving. These systems use sensors, cameras, and other technology to detect potential dangers on the road and alert the driver or take action to prevent an accident. Some common examples of ADAS technologies include:
Lane departure warning systems: These systems use cameras or sensors to detect when the vehicle is straying from its lane and provide an audio or visual warning to the driver.
Automatic emergency braking: Uses sensors to detect an imminent collision and apply the brakes automatically to prevent or mitigate the impact.
Adaptive cruise control: Radar or cameras are used to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle in front and automatically adjust the speed of the vehicle to maintain a safe distance.
Blind-spot monitoring: This system uses sensors to detect vehicles in the blind spots and provide a visual or audio warning to the driver. Some autos offer blind spot cameras installed in the side mirrors of the vehicle that display video on the instrumentation cluster, which can give drivers a view of the approaching traffic located at either side of the vehicle car when the turn signal has been activated.
Cross-traffic monitoring: Some rearview cameras include this feature which detects oncoming vehicles and pedestrians when they are approaching behind a parked vehicle that is preparing to back out of a parking space.
ADAS technologies can be especially helpful for teen drivers, who are still developing their driving skills and may be more prone to making mistakes on the road.
While ADAS can be a valuable tool in helping to prevent accidents, it’s important for teen drivers to continue practicing safe driving habits and for parents to monitor their driving behavior.
Final Thoughts
Technology can play an important role in helping to keep teen drivers safe whilst they are on the road. From smartphone apps to driving monitoring devices, to advanced driver assistance systems, there are many tools available to help parents and guardians monitor their teen’s driving habits and promote responsible and safe driving practices.
However, it’s important to remember that technology is only one piece of the puzzle. Teen drivers still need to practice safe and responsible driving habits, and parents or guardians need to be involved in the process, setting clear rules, expectations, and consequences, and discussing real-life examples with their teens.
By using technology in combination with good communication and active involvement, parents can help keep their teen drivers safe on the road and promote safe and responsible driving habits for years to come.
