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Understanding car insurance is an important part of safe driving for young people. Once you get your driver’s license, there are many things you need to do. Choosing the right car insurance is one of them. Insurance costs for young drivers can be much higher because they are considered riskier. Understanding the factors that influence these costs can help you make an informed choice.
How do young drivers pose a high risk?
Teens and young adults are more likely to be involved in car accidents than seniors and older teens. This higher risk is due to several reasons such as lack of knowledge, tendency to take risks and poor ability to detect danger. Insurance companies charge higher rates to young drivers because they consider this a risky investment.
different types of insurance
Understanding the different types of car insurance can help new drivers choose the best plan:
If you are at fault for an accident, liability insurance will reimburse the costs of injuring or damaging someone else.
If your car is damaged in an accident with another vehicle, collision coverage will pay for the repairs.
Comprehensive coverage protects you against theft and damage caused by events other than car accidents.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) pays the medical bills and lost wages of policyholders and their guests after an accident.
If you are involved in an accident with someone who does not have adequate insurance, uninsured/underinsured motorist protection can help pay for your medical bills and other costs.
How to calculate insurance rates for young drivers
Many factors influence how much a young driver will pay for car insurance, including:
Age and years of driving experience are important.
What kind of car should you drive and how safe is it?
The driver’s home address and driver’s history.
Tips for cheaper insurance
Here are some ways young drivers can lower their insurance rates:
If you continue to get good grades, you may be able to get a “good student discount.”
If you take an approved defensive driving course, insurance companies will assume that safe driving is important to you.
If you buy a car with good safety ratings, you are less likely to have to pay expensive claims.
Increasing your deductible can lower your monthly rate, but if you are involved in an accident, you will have to pay more out of your own money.
Choose the best health insurance
Young drivers should look at what different insurance companies offer to find the best rates and benefits. You should look for a plan that covers everything and fits your lifestyle and driving habits.
Technology and teen driving
Telematics is being used in new technologies such as usage-based insurance (UBI) to track how people drive, which can reduce insurance costs for safe drivers. Young drivers are increasingly interested in such programs because they offer a way to save money while demonstrating safe driving habits.
How parents can help their children buy car insurance
Parents must decide whether to add teen drivers to their current auto insurance policy or purchase separate coverage for them. If you already have insurance, adding a teen driver may save you money, but it could also increase your parents’ insurance premiums.
Common insurance mistakes young drivers make
Young drivers often make mistakes, such as not getting enough insurance to save money, choosing the wrong amount or not comparing coverage from different insurance companies. Know your needs and shop around to avoid these problems.
Students can take out insurance
Students who are new drivers may need different coverage, especially if they live out of town. Some people may take advantage of short-term protection or student rates.
How to handle an insurance claim as a teen driver
In the event of an accident, it is important to know how to handle the situation correctly and legally. Make sure you write down everything that happened, exchange information with the other vehicle, and call your insurance company immediately to report the accident.