How to Get the Best Rate for Teenagers

Teenagers are the riskiest, most dangerous drivers on the road and therefore pay the highest car insurance rates of any age group. However, teenagers with the most education, best grades, and safest, least expensive vehicles are the ones who receive the lowest car insurance rates in their age group. According to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS), teenagers aged 16, have the highest crash rate of any age group. Teenagers are also more likely to die in an auto accident than from any other cause of death. It is imperative that the parents of teenage drivers ensure their children are fully prepared before they get behind the wheel. This is not only for the safety of the teenage driver, but also for the well-being of the other drivers with whom they share the road.

When you feel the teenage driver in your family is ready to drive alone, you are ready to find them appropriate car insurance. Parents who compare multiple quotes as well as following the suggestions listed below are likely to find an insurance policy that is both affordable and that fully protects their teenage driver in the case of an accident.

Education

Most high schools in America offer driver's education. This class gives students both academic and hands on driving experience under the tutelage of a qualified, mature driver. Driver's education teaches defensive driving techniques as well as provides students with the knowledge of how to avoid potential accidents. Upon satisfactory completion of this class, students are eligible for a hefty deduction in car insurance rates. If not offered, enrolling in a private driver's education program also qualifies students for substantial insurance discounts.

Good student discount

Each insurance company has different guidelines for good student discounts, but typically, students who maintain a B average are eligible to receive a good student discount. This provides even more incentive for the teenager in your family to work hard and receive good grades. If their average falls below a B for an extended time, the insurance policy rate increases.

Vehicle choice

Choosing an older, less expensive car for the teenager in your family is the best, most affordable choice of vehicle. This is because new models require additional insurance such as GAP insurance (the difference between the loan amount and current value in the event of total vehicle destruction), and comprehensive insurance (protection against theft, vandalism, and physical damage to the vehicle). Though new cars come with more safety features, it is still more affordable to insure an older, less expensive model than a new safe car. It is also wise to avoid sports cars. Sports cars are the most expensive vehicles to insure for any age group, especially for teenagers. Once the teenager in your family has had a few years of real world experience, buying a new car becomes much more affordable to insure.

Combining insurance

Just as combining different insurance policies under the same company saves money, combining your teenager's insurance policy with yours also reduces costs. Check with your current insurance provider to see how much of a discount is available through combining policies. It is also wise to compare quotes outside of your existing company to ensure you receive the best available rate.

Good citizens

Students who take an active role in their community such as organizing clean ups or other civil improvements may be eligible to receive additional discounts. When comparing quotes, ask for a full list of potential discounts for teenagers to ensure you receive the best possible insurance policy.

Practice, practice, practice

Until the teenage driver spends a few years on the road, they are sure to encounter numerous obstacles that they do not know how to avoid. This is why it is important to practice driving with your teenager as much as possible. Help them learn ways to avoid accident as well as what to do when forced to choose an evasive course of action. The more your practice with them, the less likely they are to be involved in an accident. As a result, their insurance rates will continue to decrease each year they avoid collision.

Typical distractions

Teenagers are more likely to be involved in accidents at night and on the weekends according to the IIHS. They are also more likely to be involved in an accident when they have passengers with them. Other typical distractions include talking or texting on the phone and eating while driving. It is essential to set strict rules when your teenager operates a vehicle. Take an active interest and decrease the chances of your teenager being involved in a serious accident.

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