Whether to allow your child to have their own car or not is rarely an easy decision for parents. There are a lot of factors to consider. But, while you are the one who knows your child best, there are a number of reasons to be cautious in handing the keys over to a young adult. So, does your young adult need wheels – what to consider?
All in all, is it worth it?
Age and Behavior
Let’s get the obvious stuff out of the way right at the beginning. Teenagers, even the most intelligent and mature teenagers, are prone to doing stupid things. It’s not their fault – most of us learn best from doing things wrong and being corrected. Our teenage years are supposed to be full of mistakes and bad decisions. So, it is inevitable that teenagers are going to be at more risk behind the wheel.
Not only are teens more prone to risk-seeking behavior, but peer pressure can make them do just about anything if it is applied strongly enough. Naturally, most parents trust their kids. On the other hand, many of us can remember our own teenage years. Even if you were honest with your parents about everything in your life, you probably had at least one friend who lived a life very different from the one they told their parents about.
That’s not to say that you shouldn’t ever let your teenage children drive, of course. In fact, if you facilitate the process, help to arrange lessons and lend them money if they need it, etc. Then you have the opportunity to ensure that they are learning not just what they need to operate their vehicle on a basic level, but what they need to stay safe when out on the roads. For example, this guide on safe driving is worth introducing them to early on in the process. Encourage your child to refer back to it regularly as they gain more experience behind the wheel.
Convenience
One of the main reasons that most young adults want their own set of wheels is because they want freedom and convenience. Often, it is not only their convenience that benefits – you might finally be able to say goodbye to the Mom and Dad Taxi Service!
Of course, if they have their own vehicle then that also significantly reduces your ability to control their movements. For most young adults, this isn’t a problem. However, lots of parents have concerns about their children having unfettered access to people who might be a bad influence. Thus, you might question yourselves whether your young adult needs wheels.
This is an area where only you know what your kids’ situation is and it depends on your circumstances. If you live in a city or suburban area, your children likely have access to good public transport or can simply walk to see their friends. On the other hand, if you live in a more rural area then a vehicle might be a virtual necessity.
Money
One of the most important factors to consider in the equation is money. Not only do you have to pay for the vehicle, for driving lessons, for insurance, and for gas just to get things started (literally), but you will also need to consider the ongoing costs of maintaining the vehicle.
A poorly maintained vehicle represents a safety hazard, both to your child and to other vehicles and pedestrians. You can either spend more money upfront for a car that is in better condition, or you can spend less now for something second-hand that will probably need to have additional money spent on it to keep it running properly.
Buying used vehicles can be a minefield, although you can sometimes strike an absolute bargain. You will find plenty of advice online about the safest cars for inexperienced drivers; this is a good place to begin your search whether you buy used or new.
Remember, if a car is allowed to fall into disrepair or is not treated like the heavy machinery that it is, it’s easy for a complacent driver to cause danger to themselves and others. Make sure that you and your child understand the costs involved in ensuring that a vehicle remains roadworthy.
Necessity
This is what it all ultimately comes down to – is it necessary for your young adult child to have a car? There are lots of good arguments for teaching your child to drive. However, unless they have a need for their own vehicle, as some teenagers do, it represents a serious financial commitment, and it is also important they understand that a car is a serious piece of equipment.
The longer you spend teaching your child to drive before getting them their own vehicle, the better. Don’t shy away from helping them to begin learning to drive as soon as they are old enough. Just make sure that they understand the responsibility that comes with being a driver long before they own their own vehicle.
Leave a Reply