It is common knowledge that young people are at risk behind the wheel simply because of their inexperience. To make up for this, parents often lay down rules designed to make driving safer – but there are some loopholes they should be aware of.

Young drivers are at risk
In a survey conducted by the National Safety Council, the majority of parents reported that they don't let teens drive with friends in the car or operate a vehicle after 10 p.m. Despite the fact that 57 percent of parents forbid young people from driving with friends, 60 percent allow these drivers to shuttle around siblings – an act that is just as dangerous. Similarly, driving when it is dark places the same challenges on teens regardless of the clock. 

"The most dangerous period for a new driver is during the first year or first thousand miles, but only 54 percent of teens get their license before their 18th birthday," said Deborah A.P. Hersman, president of the National Safety Council. "The risk factors remain the same whether you are 16 or 19, so we are thrilled to see parents support extending the most effective interventions to our most inexperienced drivers." 

Passing on information
According to the Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility, 65 percent of teens say they sometimes or usually find themselves in situations they are unprepared for when driving. About two-thirds were unsure of how to maneuver through complex driving scenarios, while 60 percent didn't know how to react when a speeding car came up from behind them. Additionally, 35 percent were confused when an emergency vehicle approached them at a red light. 

While some of these situations may seem basic to experienced motorists, it takes time for young people to reach that knowledge level. Attempting to convey this information early with formal driving lessons or an open line of communication could allow teens to ask more questions and therefore receive more answers early on in their driving careers. 

Set teens up for success
One of the best ways to ensure that a teen is being safe on the road is to put him or her in a safe vehicle. If you're looking for a car that is tough enough to protect a young driver, head to New Jersey State Auto Auction to check out the selection. The lot boasts hundreds of Carfax-certified used cars, trucks and vans, and many of the options have excellent safety features that can be huge advantages in an emergency.