How North Texas Parents Can Help Teens Drive Safe This Summer
Summer in North Texas is all about pool days, road trips, and late-night fun—but it also marks the “100 Deadliest Days” for teen drivers.
Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the number of teen-related crashes rises sharply. At David’s Automotive Repair, we understand that parents play a vital role in keeping their teens safe behind the wheel with the challenges our North Texas roads and weather can bring.
Start by having regular, open conversations about driving. Teens are more likely to listen when they feel heard. Talk about the dangers of speeding, texting, and distracted driving. Teach them how summer heat can cause tire blowouts or how fast a storm can roll in here in the DFW area. North Texas is known for surprise downpours, heavy winds, and even tornado threats. Teach your teen to slow down in rain, turn on headlights when visibility drops, and never drive through standing water.
Setting clear expectations and rules can help your teen feel more prepared and confident. Create a family driving agreement that includes:
• Always wearing a seatbelt—no exceptions
• No phone use while driving, including music apps or social media
• No more than one teen passenger until they gain more experience
• Calling for a ride instead of ever driving impaired or exhausted
Texas law supports these safety measures through the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program. For the first year, teens are not allowed to drive with more than one passenger under 21 who isn’t family. They also can’t be on the road between midnight and 5 a.m. unless it's for school or work. These laws are there to reduce distractions and keep new drivers focused—make sure your teen understands and follows them.
Parents are also powerful role models. If you text at red lights, speed on the highway, or roll through stop signs, your teen is likely to do the same. Drive the way you want them to drive. Your actions speak louder than any lecture ever could.
Stay involved. Check in often about where they’re going and how they plan to get there. Not because you don’t trust them—but because North Texas traffic, especially around areas like 121, 35E,
and the Dallas North Tollway, can be unpredictable. Knowing your teen is alert and driving smart can give you peace of mind.
And of course, don’t forget the vehicle itself. Hot weather takes a toll on cars. Tires, A/C, brakes, and batteries should all be checked regularly. If your teen’s vehicle hasn’t had a recent inspection, bring it by David’s Automotive Repair—we’ll make sure it’s road-ready and safe for summer driving.
Together, with your support and example, your teen can have a fun and safe summer on the road.
Call David’s Automotive Repair at 972-625-1836
to schedule a reservation and make sure your teen’s vehicle is ready for North Texas summer driving.
If your car stalls at stoplights but runs while you are driving, the engine may be having trouble staying running at idle. The cause could be an air, fuel, ignition, or electrical problem.
Yes. A weak battery can cause warning lights, slow starting, flickering lights, and other strange electrical problems. Modern vehicles use many computers, and those computers need steady voltage to work the right way.
If your car squeals when you first start it, the noise may be coming from the serpentine belt or one of the parts that keeps the belt moving. The sound may last only a few seconds or continue until the engine warms up.
If your heater blows warm air on one side and cold air on the other, the HVAC system may not be directing air the right way. This is common on vehicles with dual-zone climate control, where the driver and passenger can choose different temperatures.
Discover the importance of alignments at David's Automotive Repair in The Colony, TX. Optimize your vehicle's performance. Call us today!
If your car smells like gas, take the odor seriously. A fuel smell can come from a fuel leak, EVAP system problem, loose gas cap, or another issue that lets fuel or fuel vapor escape.
If your headlights dim when you stop at a red light, the charging system may need attention. You may notice the lights get brighter again when you press the gas or start moving.
A soft or spongy brake pedal can mean there is a problem in the brake system. The pedal may feel like it sinks too far, feels weak, or does not give you the firm feel you expect when stopping.
If you hear a clicking sound when you turn, a worn CV joint is one of the most common causes. The noise may be louder during a sharp turn, such as when you pull into a parking space or make a U-turn.
If your car vibrates or shakes while idling , something may not be working the way it should.
