Driving Schools

Despite the worrisome statistics associated with teen drivers, many parents aren’t putting a lot of thought into picking the right driving school for their teenagers. The IIHS has discovered that a teen is four times more likely to get into a car accident when looking at car accidents per mile driven. It’s quite often that a driving school is picked solely based on the cheapest price. Unfortunately, this may sacrifice the quality of the driving instructors that are teaching teenagers and may increase the risk of getting into an accident. It could really make the difference between life and death. The Florida Department of Highway Safety has found that the rate of car crashes in students aged 15-19 who went to a more prestigious driving school was 77% less than other options included in the study. It’s important to not just take the driving school’s word about their ability to meet state standards. You should look into the specifics of the program and decide if they really do satisfy the requirements demanded by your state. You can contact your state’s motor vehicle organization to find out what the exact requirements are.

1. State Standards

   It’s important to not just take the driving school’s word about their ability to meet state standards. You should look into the specifics of the program and decide if they really do satisfy the requirements demanded by your state. You can contact your state’s motor vehicle organization to find out what the exact requirements are.

2. School Reputation

   It’s a good idea to figure out who runs the driving schools you are considering. Take a look at their credentials and experience when making your choice. You should also check to see if the school has had any disciplinary issues as well. A good place to start doing this kind of research is the Better Business Bureau. Another thing you can is check to see if the driving school in question is part of any professional driving organizations. You shouldn’t be afraid to ask those in charge of the school if they can provide you with any references to prove their credibility.

3. Quality of Instructors

   Find a school that employs instructors who have gone above and beyond the minimum standards needed to become an instructor. AAA states that you should look for schools that hire instructors with a minimum of three professional development courses completed. If you end up not being impressed with your teen’s instructor, you may ask the head of the school to assign a new one.

4. Course Curriculum

   Before putting your teen into any type of driving school class, it’s smart to take a look at the syllabus to see exactly what the class will be doing. The programs should be all-encompassing and run through a lot of situations that will prepare a new driver for many situations they will encounter on the roads. You should check to see if there is a gradual increase in topic difficulty as the course goes on. This way you know your teen will be progressively improving in their skills. Ensure that the course covers topics such as how to handle adverse conditions and emergency situations that they may encounter on the roads.

5. Types of Vehicles Used

   Another thing to check is the condition of the vehicles being used for behind-the-wheel training. It can help a teen become a better driver if they pick a vehicle that will closely resemble what they will be driving once they get their license. Many driving schools will use small cars for their improved handling ability. The number one concern should be the safety of the vehicles. They should be relatively new and in good shape.

6. Cost

   Of course, it’s always important to factor cost into your decision. Learn about all the fees and refund policies associated with each driving school and what arrangements can be made in the case of missing a class.