When I look at the kids log books and I see that they have had their L’s for ages, but have very few hours logged, I ask them about it. Invariably they say “I don’t like driving, but Mum/Dad makes me”. I dig a little further and most of the time they tell me they are frightened of having an accident and hurting people.
Interesting given that statistically a learner driver is the least likely of all drivers to be involved in an accident
Here’s some ideas to put them at ease:
- Explain that the likelihood of having an accident is very slim
- Reassure them that if there is an accident they won’t get into trouble, it is an accident after all
- Start small by going to a quiet area and gradually expand your horizons
- Ask if they would rather start with a driving school. Often a couple of hours sets them up with the confidence they need to alleviate their fears and start enjoying learning to drive
- Above all don’t pressure them, but regularly talk about it and keep the subject current
- Some kids just aren’t ready when they turn 16, and won’t even attempt the L’s test. Just keep encouraging them
- Try getting involved by studying the road rules with them, perhaps have a quiz. You never know you may learn something too.
The Road Users Handbook, and the Guide to the Driving Test are available on the RMS website (links attached). There is a fee charged for the Road Users Handbook.
https://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/roads/licence/documents-forms.html#RoadUsers'Handbook
https://www.rms.nsw.gov.au/documents/roads/licence/guide-to-driving-test.pdf
https://practicetest.rms.nsw.gov.au/pages/practice-tests?init=true
Good Luck
Jamie