If you are the parent of a teen, chances are that you know it's only a matter of time until they get their drivers licence and want to purchase a car of their own. You're probably worried about how you can keep your teenager safe when this time comes. No doubt you're aware that teen auto insurance can be very costly and wonder how they will ever be able to pay for it.
Leading by example is one of the best ways to position your teenager for cheap teen auto insurance and keep them safe on the road. There are at least five ways that you can enforce safe driving for your teenager, and the sooner you start practicing these methods, the better off you all will be.
Research how auto insurance companies determine their policy premiums. Find out what the key characteristics and factors are and how they affect teen drivers. This will put you in a better position to educate your teenager on how insurance works and what they can do to qualify for policy discounts.
Emphasize the importance of safety with your teen. Enforce your message by having them participate in Graduated Driver Licensing. This three step program will allow them to practice safe driving under low-risk conditions long before they become fully licensed and insured. This is going to make you feel a lot better about their safety and it may also get them a reduced rate on their insurance.
Just like when your teenager was a child, it's essential to set down and enforce rules. It's important to let your teen know that driving is a privilege, not a right. Set rules on how they drive, who they have with them and practice these same rules yourself.
Ask your insurer about electronic tracking devices that might be used to reduce premiums. These devices will track the driving behaviour of your teen, and if the results are favorable, will reduce the premium.
Practice safe driving techniques. Don't drive while under the influence under any circumstance. This reinforces the importance of not driving while intoxicated. Buckle up. In most states, it's the law. Keep your cell phone turned off while driving. This will eliminate the temptation to answer it and distract you from the task at hand. Control the number of passengers in your vehicle. Multiple passengers have been known to be the reason for 3-5 times more crashes. Don't tolerate reckless driving from friends or family.
Taking the initiative to start these practices now will go a long way in ensuring that your child remains safe on the road and many of these practices can lead to discounts on teen auto insurance. It's a proven fact that parents who practice safe driving techniques in front of their children will effectively produce better drivers, and better drivers get better premiums. It's that simple. |
