October is Car Safety Month, and the Be Car Care Aware consumer education campaign is sharing some tips about keeping young drivers safe on the roads.
Results from consumer research conducted by Be Car Care Aware clearly shows today's youth are neglecting their vehicles, posing a safety threat to not only themselves but others on the road.
A press release notes that today's driving youth (18 to 24 years) are less likely than more experienced drivers to change their oil regularly, and one in five have no idea when to change their oil at all.
Only 45 per cent of youth bring their vehicle in for maintenance at least once a year, versus 76 per cent of people over 50. Ten per cent of young drivers reported that they never put air in their tires, and nine per cent admitted they do not know how to determine the correct tire pressure.
These results identify an urgent need for parents to educate the young drivers in their house about the need for regular vehicle maintenance.
"Vehicle maintenance and repair is like algebra," said Kettles. "We're not born knowing it; it has to be learned. It is important that we teach young drivers the basics about their cars before they get the keys."
If you don't know much about automotive maintenance and repair, do yourself a favour and learn it along with your kids. Here are a few tips: ? Explain that all cars, new and old, need regular attention. Make sure your teenager knows and follows the maintenance schedule for his/her car. Preventive maintenance increases safety and saves money. ? Remember the owner's manual. This automotive bible is full of information about your car.
? Take them to the repair facility, the tire store, the body shop and wherever you have automotive work performed. Get them accustomed to the automotive worldits people, places, jargon and prices.
? Make a plan. What happens if the car breaks down, he/she has an accident, or the car gets stolen? What if no adults are home to receive the panic call?
For many parents, driving age is the final frontier. Certainly it is an important rite of passage for teenagers. Don't let your child pass into this stage of his/her life without being prepared. Take the time and the necessary materials to make your young driver feel competent and secure. - Source: Be Car Care Aware Canada
