If you have a teen driver in your household, chances are you’re concerned about keeping your auto insurance costs under control. It’s a fact: As a group, teenagers do cost more to insure than adults. But there are several ways to keep your teen’s auto insurance costs under control. Give us a call anytime and we’ll be happy to discuss them. In the meantime, here are three important steps you can take:
- Have your teenager drive an older, safer vehicle. You probably aren’t going to score any points with your teen-ager by making them drive an older family SUV or sedan instead of a sportier set of wheels. But you could pay less in premiums to insure your teen if they drive an older (and safer!) vehicle. Have some vehicles in mind for your teen? We can crunch the numbers for you.
- Emphasize the importance of a good driving record. Make sure your teen-ager knows the effect that speeding tickets and at-fault accidents can have on the cost of insuring their vehicle. Make sure they know any state laws regarding seatbelt use and banning cell phone use and texting while driving — and that they follow them. Take the time to explain to them how auto insurance works and why it’s so important to drive safely. Make sure they understand distracted driving isn’t just texting while driving; it’s eating a meal behind the wheel, talking on the phone, blaring the radio and other actions.
- Help your teen get educated. A driver’s education course is a great way to go — even if you have spent time teaching your teenager how to drive. They’ll get more experience behind the wheel from someone who is used to teaching teenagers and they’ll gain more information in the classroom about staying safe while driving. Chances are, laws have changed since you first learned to drive, and a driver’s education course can help make sure your teenager is up to date on what they need to know when they get behind the wheel.
- Take driving education one step further. You may want to consider a defensive driving course for your teen beyond the typical driver’s education course taken in school. These types of courses can be a great help in teaching your teenager to drive defensively.
- Consider using a safe driving app. There are a variety of apps out there that can help teenagers drive more safely. Check where you purchase your apps to see which ones have the best reviews and that fit you and your family best.
Questions about auto insurance for your teenager — or any other member of the family? We’re here to answer your questions. Call us at (859) 781-0434.
