Gaining a driver’s license marks a significant milestone in a teenager's life, symbolizing newfound independence and responsibility. For parents, seeing their teen drive away for the first time brings a mix of excitement and anxiety. January's Teen Driving Awareness Month provides the perfect opportunity to stop, celebrate, and discuss safety—both on the road and through your insurance policy.
The Higher Risks for Teen Drivers
Despite overall reductions in crash rates, teenagers remain one of the most vulnerable groups
when driving. In 2021, drivers under 20 accounted for 12.6% of all drivers involved in crashes, though they represented only 5.1% of licensed drivers. The mix of inexperience, distraction, and overconfidence makes early driving months quite perilous.
Driving at night amplifies these risks. Limited visibility, fatigue, and an increased presence of impaired or distracted drivers make nighttime particularly hazardous, especially for teens who are still developing their driving skills.
Life-Saving Habits for Teens
Many common driving mistakes among teens can be avoided by adopting these key habits:
Put the Phone Away.Distracted driving is a major safety threat for teens. Even a brief glance at a text or social media can lead to severe accidents. Encourage teens to use "Do Not Disturb" mode on phones or store them in the glove compartment until they reach their destination.
Buckle Up Every Time.Teen seat belt use is notably lower than among adults, even though wearing seat belts reduces the risk of serious injury or death by half. Insist that everyone in the car wears a seat belt, irrespective of the trip length.
Drive Slowly and Maintain Distance.Speeding and tailgating are frequent mistakes for new drivers. Remind teens that safe arrival is always more important than speed. Keeping extra distance provides additional reaction time.
Minimize Risks.Establish clear limits on nighttime driving and restrict the number of passengers until they gain more experience. Fewer distractions help maintain focus and alertness.
Consider the Insurance Aspect
When teens become licensed, it's vital to review auto coverage. Adding them to an existing policy is often most cost-effective, but coverage levels should be evaluated to meet your family's needs.
Key areas to consider:
- Higher liability limits: Protects against medical and property costs if your teen causes a crash.
- Collision coverage: Covers vehicle repair costs after an accident.
- Comprehensive coverage: Covers non-collision incidents like theft or weather damage.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: Protects against inadequately insured drivers.
Your insurance agent can clarify options to balance protection and cost effectively. Discuss discounts for good grades, driver training, or vehicles featuring safety technologies.
Celebrate and Prepare This Month
January offers a chance not just for awareness but to celebrate your teen's progress while prepping them for future drives. With encouragement, ongoing communication, and appropriate coverage, you can help your new driver build lasting confidence and safety habits.
If you’re considering reviewing your auto policy or exploring options for including your teen, get in touch with our office. We're committed to ensuring that your family enjoys this milestone safely and confidently.