During the past several weeks, I’ve posted a number of blogs about teen driving. I’ve covered a lot of topics, and most importantly, looked at how vital it is to recognize that driving is a responsibility. Helping our teens become safe drivers takes a lot of coaching, attention, patience and active parenting.

There are a few takeaways from this discussion that are important to remember and can’t be reinforced enough.

Let’s review:

• Driving is a major responsibility. It’s one of the first steps teenagers take toward becoming independent. Be sure to set safety expectations with your son or daughter.

• Always wear a seat belt. Regardless of how short the trip is or how slowly you’re driving, wear your seat belt. Have your teen wear a seat belt. Insist all passengers do the same. It could save a life or prevent serious injuries.

• Speak with your teen about eliminating distractions in the car and be sure to set the right example yourself. Help him or her understand the importance of focusing on the road. If your son or daughter needs to make a phone call, be sure he or she knows to pull off the road or wait until the trip is over. Tell your teen driver not to send or receive text messages while driving, as this greatly increases the risk of accident and is illegal in many states (including Wisconsin by the end of 2010).

• Exercise good habits yourself and describe to your teen what you are doing while driving. Start teaching your son or daughter when they are young by setting a good example. Wear your seat belt, pay attention and put the phone away. Help your teenager build a foundation that will make him or her a safer driver.

• Make it clear to your son or daughter that drinking and driving is deadly for adults and teens and is strictly forbidden, no matter what.

• Have patience and help build your teenager’s confidence. It’s difficult for an experienced driver to understand what driving is like for a rookie. Be open, understanding and conversational about the experience.