16 Year Old Teenage Driver Auto Insurance Tips

Reader’s Question:

I’m looking for tips on how I can bring down my auto insurance costs since I have a 16 year old driver that has really driven my premiums up! Thanks!

Lesley

Boston, MA

Well you are not alone, there are a lot of parents out there who are looking for ways to minimize their car insurance costs as well (with the kind of economy that we’ve been having lately, who wouldn’t?). Below are useful information that can help you shave-off much needed dollars on your auto insurance premiums, even with a teenage-driver in tow.

1. About Discounts. Most auto insurance companies have them. You can call up your carrier to inquire about available discounts for you but first, know what you are eligible for, here is a list of common auto insurance discounts:

• Good Driver discounts (clean driving record for the past three to five years).
• Good Student Discounts (For students who are performing well academically).
• Professional & Associations discounts like Military, National Guard, Coast Guards, Doctors etc.
• Incentives for taking Defensive Driving Courses (highly recommended).
• Installing additional safety mechanisms on the vehicle such as airbags, anti-lock brakes etc.

2. If you will be getting your teenager a car, consider an older, less expensive vehicle. Brand new top of the line cars are very popular among car thieves and may be very expensive to repair/ replace. This could drive your premiums higher.

3. Raise your deductibles. Doing so will lower the amount of premiums you pay regularly on your policy.

4. Teach your kid to drive responsibly, nothing can cause your auto insurance rates to skyrocket further than frequent tickets and accidents. Also tell them about the long term implications of irresponsible driving on their record.