Cheap auto insurance can be difficult to come by if you have a newly qualified, teenaged driver behind the wheel. You need to keep 10 crucial tips in mind, as well as focus on the fine print if you want to get the best coverage at the most affordable rate. Don't be caught unaware by an inferior cheap auto insurance policy.
Claim rates climb where teenagers are among the drivers. Research into this unfortunate fact shows that teenaged drivers are 10 times more accident prone than mature, experienced drivers. This makes them undoubtedly a high risk group. As soon as you add a teenager to your policy, your premium will sky-rocket. Fortunately, with a bit of know-how, you can keep the cost of your cheap auto insurance package down.
1. Car Is Crucial: When at a repossessed car auction, you can be sure that your teen will have his or her eye on the most sassy sports car. You need to opt for that older, heavier model that was not given a second glance. You will probably not win the dad of the year award for this one, but it will ensure both a lower premium and lower worry rate. Insurance companies don't want to see an expensive, fast sports car driven by a teen. They should be able to give you a list of the more dangerous choices.
2. Harp On History: Trying to convince teens of the importance of a spotless driving and credit history can be difficult. They need to know that any black mark has a long-term, detrimental effect. Even a speeding ticket may cause a premium increase. Try to avoid claiming for small fender-benders.
One of the best things you can give your teen, is a course at a reputable driving school. Better yet, why not go with your child for a Defensive Driver Program? This may save a life someday. You will learn to lessen the risk of rear-end crashes, plus how to drive in bad weather, what a safe following distance is, as well as some emergency brake procedures.
One way to teach your child to be a responsible driver, is to expect him or her to pitch in for a share of the premium.
3. Drive Away Distractions: Your teen needs to know that, when behind the wheel, it is all eyes and ears on the road. No distractions should be tolerated. Cell phone calls are a definite no-no, even with hands-off sets. No joking around with passengers. You may even be wise to consider not allowing passengers during the first year or so of driving. This is one way to get cheap auto insurance. There are now laws in some states that prohibit teenagers from carrying more than one passenger. Research has shown that passengers can increase the likelihood of an accident by up to three times. The laws also make it illegal for teens to drive during the risky late night or early morning periods.
4. Fasten Your Seat Belt: The use of a seat belt is without question one of the most important safety factors when in a car. Your kid needs to know that her driving privileges will be suspended immediately if she is caught without a seat belt. The same goes for allowing passengers to travel without seat belts. Some cheap auto insurance carriers even drop their rates if you and your kid signs a seat belt wearing undertaking.
5. Road Role Model: Remember that, from baby days, your kids watch what you do while on the road. If you don't wear a seat belt, they won't. If you speed, they will too. You can't expect your kids to obey rules you constantly ignore. Your example plays a vital role in the driving habits they adopt.
6. Different Driver Status: When applying for cheap auto insurance, you may be allowed to register your kid as an occasional driver. This will lower the premium. To start out with, it will be less expensive to add your teen to your personal protection plan. Once they have somewhat of a history, they can change to their own coverage.
7. Life-Giving Liability: Never, ever skimp on liability coverage when taking out cheap car insurance. This needs to be comprehensive and substantial. Aim to get an umbrella policy. If there is an accident, it will give you a reassuring cushion while bills pile up.
8. Making The Grade: Here is another area for some leverage. Many companies see good grades as a sign of responsibility and adjust premiums accordingly. Make a contract with your kid in which a B average or higher is a proviso for access to the car keys.
9. Good Company: One avenue that allows you to side-step a loaded premium is your own business. It may very well be that your teen may drive your company car without you being penalized in the rates department. Ask about this possibility when applying for cheap auto insurance.
10. No Teen Tantrums: Your child needs to understand that driving a car involves adopting an adult attitude. He or she needs to understand that risky or dangerous driving has serious consequences. You may end up in the high risk category with no chance of getting cheap auto insurance quotes. This carry-over from your teen's behavior can have serious financial implications for the whole family.
Don't just assume that a teenaged driver equals high premiums. Do your homework and you may still qualify for an affordable rate. You can also read our article with 10 general cheap auto insurance tips.
