Motorists with attention deficit disorder (ADD ADHD) - especially teens - need to be extra careful on the road. Here's how to help them minimize distractions and stay safe.
Pick a safe car. Larger cars offer greater protection in the event of an accident.
Help your teen with ADD learn to drive. Practice sessions should cover a variety of situations. Ask that he drive with an adult for at least his first 500 miles behind the wheel.
Don't let your teen drive at night. Most fatal crashes involving young drivers occur between 9 p.m. and midnight.
Don't let your teenager chauffeur other teens.
Remind your teen that he must wear a seat belt at all times ...and that he must never drive after drinking or using drugs.
For more on keeping teenagers safe behind the wheel, see AD/HD & Driving: A Guide for Parents of Teens with AD/HD, by J. Marlene Snyder, Ph.D. (Whitefish Consultants, 2001).
