Lowering the Cost of Insuring your Teenager?

Answer 1

Your teenager finally got their driver's license: good news for them, (probably) bad news for you. Besides the constant feeling of worry you will suffer knowing your teenager is out on the open road, you will also have to go through the fairly pricey process of getting them insured. Adding your teenager to your insurance policy can raise your premiums as much as 100 percent, due to the relative driving inexperience teenagers have, as well as the proven fact that teenagers cause more traffic accidents than adults. Following the tips mentioned below can help you lower the cost of insuring your teen.

First of all, remember that the type of car your teenager drives affects the insurance rates. A sports car is probably the most costly vehicle to insure, so as much as your teenager may protest, that should not be their first car. Adding safety features to your car, such as anti-lock brakes and automatic seatbelts, can make your car less expensive to insure.

Make it clear to your teenager that they start out with a clean driving record, and the longer they keep it that way, the better. Traffic tickets, fender benders, and especially DWI's can substantially increase your insurance rates. If your teenager keeps a clean driving record once they are older they will see their insurance rates drop considerably.

Another way to drop your teen's insurance rates would be to enroll them in a defensive driving class or some other formal driving education. A defensive driving course goes onto your teen's driving record, which insurance companies look at quite favorably.

Your teenager's lifestyle is also a factor insurance companies look in deciding your premium. Many companies offer discounts if your teenager has good grades in school or is involved in positive organizations in the community, such as a scouts or volunteer program. Encourage your teenager to be a positive member of the community, and your wallet may thank you.

Take time to educate your teenager about safe driving. Stress that driving while distracted or intoxicated or driving recklessly can greatly increase the chance of accidents, and your insurance rate. Lead by example: always wear your seatbelt, obey traffic laws, and drive carefully and defensively to teach your teenager to be a responsible driver. Not only will driving correctly lead to lower costs to you, it will also better the chances of your teenager arriving safely at their destination.