Tips to make it ‘less daunting’
TEACHING a teenager to drive can be a daunting prospect for anyone.
However road safety education consultant David Riches says some planning and communication before the learner gets behind the wheel, can ease the way.
“Part of the problem is people jump in a car without knowing where they are going to go and what they are going to do,” he said.
“A small issue that often comes up right at the start is not having the radio or music on in the car so it is not a distraction.
“Have a chat first so you know what their expectations are and they know your expectations.
“The second thing is to spend a little time in a car park or quiet area so the learner can get an understanding of how the car works, particularly if it is a manual, rather than getting them on the road in the first lesson.
“Sometimes it is a good idea to get a driving school to give them the first couple of lessons.”
Mr Riches said supervisors should also refresh their own understanding of the road rules and suggests printing or buying a copy to keep in the glovebox as a handy reference.
He said directions to the learner also needed to make sense.
“Give them clear and specific instructions following the ‘At, When, Do’ method,” he said.
“ For example, ‘at the next intersection, when the light turns green, turn left when it is safe to do so’.”
Parents and carers who supervise learner drivers can get more tips at a free, two-hour, workshop run by Cumberland Council and the Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) at the Berala Community Centre on Thursday, March 5, from 6.30-8.30pm.
Bookings are essential on 8757 9870 or email rso@cumberland.nsw.gov.au.
