Prom night is an exciting time for our teens. I’m sure you can still remember your own prom night, I know I do. Every parent wants their teen to carry those memories with them for a life time. However, prom night can also see more tragic defining moments – serious car accidents involving teens who are distracted or even under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
At R.C. Keller & Company, we want to help make this season one to celebrate for you and your teen. Here are some tips that can help keep your teen safe. Also, please share this video from the Insurance Information Institute with your teen for another reason why they should not drink and drive.
- Encourage your teen to follow these general safe-driving rules:
- Absolutely no alcohol
- Always use seat belts
- No cell phone use (including texting) while driving
- Make sure you know what’s going on for the evening, as well as who else will be with your teen. You should get contact information for everyone.
- Have a way to contact your teen at all times. You might want them to check in with you once or twice over the course of the evening.
- Set a curfew, whether they are coming home or staying with a friend. If they are staying somewhere else, make sure the curfew will be enforced by a responsible adult.
- Discuss with your teen how to handle difficult situations, such as facing peer pressure to drink or accepting a ride with someone who shouldn’t be driving. It’s a good idea to give your child money for a taxi just in case.
- Offer a “no-questions-asked” ride home, should they need one during the night. If you are worried about your teen driving consider alternate transportation, such as a car service or limo.
Prom is a special time in your teen’s life. A little bit of common sense will go a long way toward making sure your young adult is around to enjoy the other milestones that are sure to come.