Decision Driving™ requires a combination of driving skills and the ability to make the right decision at the right time. With your years of driving experience, this may seem like second nature. But to a teenager learning to drive, defensive driving isn’t always top of mind. Here are five simple tips to share with your teen.

1. Expand your "look–ahead" capacity.
Rather than focusing directly in front of the vehicle, a driver should be looking 10 to 12 seconds down the road — where many potential trouble spots begin.

2. Size up the whole scene.
A defensive driver will continually scan for bicyclists, pedestrians, construction, traffic congestion, erratic drivers and changing road conditions. That includes checking mirrors every few seconds.

3. Signal your intentions early.
Use turn signals, horn or lights, when appropriate, to help avoid surprises. This helps other drivers understand your plans, so they can make their own defensive driving decisions.

4. Plan an escape route.
Carefully time passing moves, avoid tailgating and plan actions to help avoid a crash. Think ahead and allow enough time, space and visibility to stop or maneuver smoothly.

5. Take decisive action.
Any driver — young or old — who practices the first four principles will be able to react to most traffic situations, with time and space to maneuver safely. While you may have mastered defensive driving, it may require additional experience and hours behind the wheel for your teen.