Auto Insurance for Teenage Drivers – What Parents Need to Know
Teenage drivers are highly unpopular among auto insurance companies; in a recent survey conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, teenage drivers get into accidents six times more than adult drivers. And this is the reason why most auto insurance policies demand very high premiums for drivers of this age group.
However, there are a few auto insurance companies that view teenage drivers in a better light. These companies also offer discounts to help cut down costs on the policy. Always remember the golden rule while shopping for insurance for teenagers; higher the risk, higher the insurance premium cost. Let us take a look at how you can purchase a lower premium and help your teenager from violating any traffic rules.
As parents, it is your duty to ensure that your teenager is aware of all the traffic rules and regulations and also follows them to the letter. The best way to keep your car insurance premium at a low level is to have a clean driving record. Talk to your teenager often about driving laws and insist on safe driving at all times. Another important thing that all parents should remember is to practice and not just preach. Set a good example to your children by practicing safe driving yourself. Children unconsciously pick up driving behavior from their parents; hence, maintain a mature behavior towards fellow drivers and follow traffic rules at all times.
Another wise investment option is to include your teenager as an additional driver on your auto insurance policy instead of setting up an independent policy. This allows the discount benefits to be made available to both the policies. Discounts are also offered by some motor insurance companies to teenage drivers who enroll themselves in registered driving classes.
Encourage your child to get good grades in school; you could also pay them more pocket money for the same as a token of appreciation. GPAs of 3.0 or higher can reduce the auto insurance premium by at least ten percent. Tell your teenager that the money you save on this will be passed onto them; this not only helps to keep the premium low but also encourages your child to perform better academically.
Buy a sturdy and safe car for your teenager instead of one of those flashy, red sports cars. Remember, your duty is to teach your kid safe driving and not posh driving. It is also necessary to get your child involved in the insurance payments. Tell them about the premiums and the costs that are incurred and ask for suggestions to help keep the costs down. This makes them feel grown up and responsible which is definitely an added advantage.
All it takes is a little bit of understanding and cooperation on the part of both age groups to make driving a pleasant experience for your teenager.