Do you get tense every time your teenage driver gets behind the wheel? If you didn’t shop around and compare car insurance quotes online before insuring them, it’s likely that you get another rush of anxiety every time a payment rolls around.
If you’re responsible for a young driver, you probably already know that car insurance companies will significantly increase the premium when a teenager comes onto a policy. In fact, a recent survey showed teen drivers increase rates by as much as 44 to 62 percent. But did you know that there are some things you can do to reduce your costs? By using the following six tips, you can make sure your child is protected on the roads without running up a big bill.
1. Compare Car Insurance Quotes Online
This is the simplest and most effective method of earning some savings on your auto coverage. The fact is that not all car insurance companies will charge you the same for insuring a teen driver. Taking some time to shop around online will give you a comprehensive look at the market. Some companies offer very competitive rates on teen drivers and other high risk groups in order to get your business. With the help of quote comparison sites, this task will only take you a few minutes.
2. Add Your Teen to Your Policy
Experts will tell you it’s better to add your son or daughter to your policy so they can benefit from any discounts you have earned. Purchasing separate individual coverage may make them feel more independent, but it will cost more.
3. Get Extra Training
Your teen had to pass a basic driver’s training course to obtain a license, but having them enroll in additional classes is a great way to show your auto coverage provider that you take safety seriously. In turn, they are likely to drop your rates. Defensive driving courses are a popular option for people who follow this tip.
4. Inform Your Provider When Circumstances Change
If your teenager is going away to college and won’t be taking a car with them, you need to inform your coverage provider. This is especially true if they’re going 100 miles or more away from you. In this scenario, your teen’s chances of impacting your policy goes way down. Your rate should drop accordingly.
5. Tell Your Provider if You Have a Good Student
It’s true, many auto insurers will reduce your premium if your student earns top grades. High marks in school correlate with greater responsibility and maturity, so your provider may feel a little safer insuring your teen if they are on the honor roll. Don’t be embarrassed to boast about their accomplishments – it could save you some money.
6. Pick the Right Car
The kind of car your teen drives plays a big role in your premium increase. Sporty cars with poor safety features are going to hurt your pocketbook at the dealership and at the insurance agency. Providers prefer you to choose safe, reliable cars with features like anti-lock brakes, airbags, and electronic stability control.
Start Early
These six tips will help you avoid some of the anxiety that comes with parenting a teen driver. For parents with children on the verge of getting their license, it’s smart to start shopping around now. By comparing car insurance quotes early in the process, you’ll have time to pick the perfect provider and make use of as many of these tips as possible.
