Why it's best for dad to teach young drivers
Most drivers think fathers are better than mothers when it comes to giving their children driving lessons.
But dads lose their tempers quicker while mums are more likely to panic, a survey by AA Driving School found.
A total of 52pc of the 1,387 adults polled said fathers were the better parent for giving lessons, while just 24pc preferred mother to be beside them when learning.
The poll also revealed:
Also, 73pc agreed that fathers were better at teaching practical skills (such as how to check engine oil), 56pc reckoned dads had a better knowledge of road theory and 65pc thought fathers were better at teaching technique such as clutch control.
Habits
Instructors considered that bad habits parents passed on to children learning to drive included not using their mirrors properly, speeding and braking too hard or late.
Simon Douglas, director of the AA Driving School, said: "It's not easy learning to drive and having a parent take a learner out on the road, regardless of whether it's mum or dad, can really help a novice driver move forward."
He said parents can play a part in giving lessons, but added: "With bad habits easily passed on, we would also advise parents to let the experts do the teaching, while parents spend their time helping their children gain experience.
hnews@herald.ie
- Peter Woodman
