Sending a child away to college is never easy, but you can make the transition a little easier by having a heart-to-heart conversation with your college-bound student before he or she leaves the nest. Following are some topics for discussion, courtesy of Feroleto Law, that will help your child avoid potential pitfalls down the road:
Driving
• Does your college student know what to do if they are in an accident? They should exchange insurance information with the other driver; get medical treatment to rule out any injuries; and take photographs of injuries, vehicles and the location of the accident if it can be done safely.
• Talk to your teen about the dangers of texting while driving! Texting while driving significantly increases the chance of being involved in a collision.
• Review your — or your child's — automobile insurance policy. Does the policy include SUM/UM (supplementary uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage)? If not, consider investing in it; it’s a small cost for peace of mind.
Facebook
• Talk to your student about making good choices about what they post. They have control over what they post and what they choose to be “tagged” in.
• Have your student review their security settings. These settings can be adjusted to control what information, posts and photos are seen and by who.
• Potential employers, universities/colleges, insurance companies, etc., often research people and review Facebook profiles. Nothing should be posted that may affect the possibility of advancement in careers or education, now or in the future.
• Ask, “How would I feel if my mother or father ever saw this photo or post?” before posting or being “tagged” in a photograph.
Off-campus Housing
• A lease is a contract. Breaking it can have severe financial consequences.
• Your son or daughter should take pictures of and make a list of any damage to the apartment such as stains on carpets, ripped screens and scratches on floors prior to moving in. The list should be reviewed and signed by the landlord.
• Talk to your insurance carrier about renters’ insurance. It is inexpensive and provides protection in the event of fire, burglaries or other events (see your contract for specifics).
For more information on Feroleto Law Injury Attorneys, serving Western New York and Ontario residents for nearly 30 years, please visit www.yourbuffalolawyer.com or call 854-0700.
