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Celebrating Teen Driving Awareness Month
Amber Purvis

Acquiring a driver's license marks a significant moment in a teenager's life, symbolizing newfound independence and responsibility. For parents, seeing their teen drive off for the first time is both thrilling and anxiety-inducing. January’s Teen Driving Awareness Month offers the perfect chance to celebrate this milestone while emphasizing safety on the road and within your insurance policy.

The Unique Risks for Teen Drivers

Despite overall declines in crash rates, teenagers remain among the most at-risk drivers. In 2021, drivers under 20 accounted for 12.6% of crash-involved drivers but only 5.1% of licensed drivers. Their inexperience, distractions, and overconfidence contribute to heightened dangers during their initial driving months.

Driving at night compounds these risks due to decreased visibility, fatigue, and the prevalence of impaired or distracted drivers. This makes nighttime driving particularly challenging for new drivers who are still learning how to handle pressure-packed situations.

Lifesaving Habits for Teens

Many of the common mistakes young drivers make can be avoided by embedding a few key habits:

  • Silence the Phone. Distracted driving is a major threat to young drivers. A brief glance at a text or social media can lead to serious accidents. Encourage teens to set phones to “Do Not Disturb” or place them out of reach while driving.
  • Always Buckle Up. Teen seat belt usage is consistently lower compared to adults, yet wearing one halves the risk of serious injury or death. Make it a rule that everyone in the car must wear a seatbelt, regardless of the trip's length.
  • Drive Smoothly and Keep Distance. Speeding and following too closely are frequent errors among new drivers. Remind teens that it's more important to arrive safely than quickly, as more distance allows more time to react.
  • Minimize Night Driving and Passengers. Set boundaries for nighttime driving and limit the number of passengers to reduce distractions until they are more experienced.

Insurance Considerations for New Drivers

When your teen becomes a licensed driver, it's an opportune time to reassess your auto insurance coverage. Adding your teen to your existing policy is often the most cost-effective choice, but it’s essential to ensure that coverage levels meet your family’s needs. Consider reviewing the following:

  • Higher Liability Limits: Protects against costs associated with medical bills or property damage if your teen is at fault.
  • Collision Coverage: Covers repair costs after an accident.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: Safeguards against non-collision incidents like theft, vandalism, or weather damage.
  • Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Offers security if another driver lacks adequate insurance.

Consulting with your insurance agent can help you align protection with affordability while exploring discounts for good grades, driver training, or safety-equipped vehicles.

Celebrate and Prepare

January serves as more than a mere observance month—it’s a time to celebrate your teen's progress and prepare them for the continued journey ahead. With encouragement, open communication, and appropriate coverage, you can help foster safe, lifelong driving habits.

If you're interested in reviewing your auto policy or discussing options to add your teen, reach out to our office today. Let us help you navigate this exciting milestone with confidence and peace of mind.