Driving Tips for Jersey Teens

This fall, there aren't just a lot of teenagers going back to school – there are a lot of young people that are getting their licenses for the first time. Most young drivers are just starting out with their financial independence so most are driving less expensive used cars. Some parents and drivers are concerned about safety when they think about driving. There is concern over how safe the driver is and how safe their used car is. If they purchased a Quality Certified Pre-Owned Vehicle in South Jersey, then drivers have one less concern to worry about.

If you live in New Jersey, it's safe to assume that you've heard every joke about the Garden State being one of the worst places to drive in. Teen drivers may feel a little intimidated when they're on the roads but, luckily, teens and parents don't have much to worry about. A recent study ranked the best and worst states for teenage drivers, and New Jersey is the 12^th best place on the road. If your teen is feeling a little apprehensive about driving, these tips may help them feel a bit more at ease behind the wheel:

Be aware of other drivers

New Jersey is the most densely populated state in the country, and over 1,200 people inhabit each square mile. This unique situation means that the roads will be full of people, so it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the amount of traffic. Make sure that you pay attention to the cars around you. Your attentiveness can help make up for someone's carelessness, and that can mean the difference between having and preventing an accident. 

Don't fear the highways

When you're a new driver, going on the highways can seem a bit scary but they're often the best way to get around the state. If you need to get to the shore, hopping onto the AC Expressway is the easiest way to reach the beach. The Garden State Parkway is the best way to get up and down the coast. If you need to go from the northern end of the state to the southern or vice versa, the New Jersey Turnpike will usually get you there fast. If you don't like having to pay tolls, use 295 in South Jersey or 287 up north. Once you get used to being on the highway, you'll wonder why you ever bothered with side streets.

Don't panic if you get lost

There's nothing scarier than missing an exit or turn when you're driving, but when that happens you should remain calm. A missed exit in other states can sometimes mean an extra half hour added onto a trip, but luckily New Jersey drivers don't have to worry about that much. Everything is so close together that missing an exit or turn is a minor inconvenience. Also don't be afraid to use your GPS or map to find a different road if you're stuck in traffic; you'll probably be able to find another faster route without any trouble.