Ten Fears Parents Have When Teaching Their Kids to Drive

Teaching a teenager to drive is a rite of passage for many parents, but it’s also a time filled with anxiety and worry. The thought of handing over the keys to a car and watching their child navigate busy roads can be nerve-wracking. Here are ten common fears parents have when teaching their kids to drive, backed by statistics that highlight why these concerns are valid.

1. Fear of Accidents

Parents’ top fear is undoubtedly the possibility of their child getting into an accident. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), car crashes are the leading cause of death for teens in the United States, accounting for nearly 2,500 fatalities in 2022. Teens aged 16–19 are three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than drivers aged 20 and older. This statistic amplifies parents’ anxiety, especially during the early stages of driving.

2. Fear of Distracted Driving

With smartphones being ubiquitous, parents worry about their teens texting or using apps while driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that distracted driving claimed 3,522 lives in 2021, and teens are among the most at-risk groups. Many parents fear their child won’t resist the temptation to check their phone, even for a second.

3. Fear of Speeding

Speeding is a common concern, as teens often lack the experience to judge safe speeds. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), speeding was a factor in 29% of fatal crashes involving teen drivers in 2021. Parents worry their child might overestimate their driving skills and take unnecessary risks on the road.

4. Fear of Peer Pressure

Parents know that teens are heavily influenced by their friends. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that having even one passenger in the car increases a teen driver’s risk of a fatal crash by 44%. This fear is compounded when parents imagine their child succumbing to peer pressure to drive recklessly or engage in risky behaviors.

5. Fear of Night Driving

Driving at night is inherently more dangerous, especially for inexperienced drivers. The NHTSA reports that 40% of fatal crashes involving teens occur between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. Parents worry about reduced visibility, fatigue, and the increased likelihood of encountering impaired drivers during these hours.

6. Fear of Impaired Driving

The fear of their child driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a significant concern. According to the CDC, 24% of teen drivers involved in fatal crashes in 2020 had been drinking. Even though drinking and driving is illegal for teens, parents worry their child might make a poor decision in a moment of peer pressure or curiosity.

7. Fear of Not Being Prepared

Parents often question whether they’ve adequately prepared their child for the road. A study by Liberty Mutual and SADD found that 37% of teens admit to not feeling fully confident in their driving skills. This lack of confidence can lead to hesitation or mistakes, which parents fear could result in accidents.

8. Fear of Other Drivers

Even if their child is a cautious driver, parents worry about other drivers on the road. Aggressive or reckless drivers, especially those who speed or run red lights, pose a significant threat. According to the NHTSA, 50% of fatal crashes involving teens also involve another vehicle.

9. Fear of Mechanical Failures

Parents often worry about their child’s car breaking down or experiencing mechanical issues, leaving them stranded or in danger. While modern vehicles are generally reliable, the AAA reports that 40% of teens don’t know how to change a tire or handle basic car maintenance, adding to parents’ concerns.

10. Fear of Legal and Financial Consequences

Finally, parents fear the legal and financial repercussions of their child’s driving mistakes. A single accident can lead to costly repairs, increased insurance premiums, or even lawsuits. According to the IIHS, the average cost of a car accident involving a teen driver is $6,600, not including medical expenses or legal fees.

Conclusion

Teaching a teen to drive is a milestone that comes with a mix of pride and anxiety. While these fears are valid, parents can take steps to mitigate risks by setting clear rules, practicing defensive driving, and ensuring their child receives proper training. Open communication and consistent practice can help teens build confidence and develop safe driving habits, easing parents’ worries and making the road safer for everyone.