Insuring a new driver can be expensive. Learn what you can do to keep your premiums as low as possible and your teen accident-free.
Tips to Keep Costs Down
If you’re the parent of a teenager who is getting ready to climb behind the steering wheel, insuring your new driver can be an expensive endeavour. This is because the risk of motor vehicle crashes is higher among 16- to 19-year-olds than among any other age group. We’ve gathered some helpful tips to help you keep your premiums as low as possible and keep your teen safe and accident-free.
Adding Your Teen to Your Auto Policy
If your teen is sharing a family vehicle, and you have more than one vehicle on your policy, keep the cost down by designating which vehicle they will be driving. It is always best to have them drive the least expensive unit.
If they have their own vehicle, consider having them own it in their name and purchasing their own insurance policy. This will help them establish insurance history which could result in lower premiums for them in the future. It will also protect you from any liability instances and not affect your insurance if they were to have a claim.
Deductible Considerations
Auto deductibles typically range from $250 to $1,000. By upping your deductible and using your insurance for big repairs, you can significantly reduce your premium.
Driver Training Discount
If your teen has completed a Driver Training Program, they may qualify for a discount. Their Driver Training Certificate would be required.
Weigh Your Buying Decision
Wanting to get your teenager a new car to drive with the latest safety equipment is understandable, but you may be better off purchasing a safe, used vehicle in terms of premium prices.
Set Your Expectations for Safety and Minimize Distracted Driving
Teens can get distracted easily. To help reduce potential accidents:
- Restrict your teen’s nighttime driving
- Do not allow them to drive with more than one other person in the car
- Ban cell phone use while driving
- Ride with your son or daughter occasionally to make sure they are keeping up with the safety habits that they learned in driver’s education
We’re Here to Help
Call our office today at 780.532.7800 to learn more about our automobile insurance and personal risk management solutions.