Tips For Protecting Your Teen Driver (NAPSA)—Many American families are giving their teens vehicles og before they head to college or join Se aod “4 the working world. Auto insurance 2 4 experts share safety and insurance tips to help protect your child behind the wheel. Buy A Safe Vehicle Putting your teen in a safe " f af . A q vehicle protects him or her on the road and lowers insurance rates, says Tim Noble at General Casu- alty. “We recommend teens drive more conservative vehicles in good condition and equipped with basic safety features like air bags, head restraints and anti-lock brakes.” The Insurance Information Institute notes that teen drivers lack experience, and speeding and reckless driving are more common. High-performance features, such as turbocharged engines, can encourage riskier driving, like speeding. Before you give your teen the keys to the car, review some basic rules of the road. “Parents can help by setting a good example when they drive,” says Fester. “It’s more likely your teen will drive responsibly if you do, too.” Talk To Your Agent Discuss with your independent agent how to keep insurance They also cost a lot more to insure, costs down. Most insurers offer savings if your student maintains Before giving the keys to your teen, Debbie Fester of Farmers (on a 4.0 scale). Your child’s insurance could increase substantially if he or says Unigard’s John Blodnick. Build Good Driving Habits Union Insurance recommends reviewing basic “rules of the road”: Obey the speed limit and traffic laws. e Stay alert and be a defensive driver. Concentrate on the road. Don’t use the phone, eat or apply makeup while driving. e Drive sober. e Allow plenty of time for trips so driving isn’t stressful. a “B” or 3.0 grade point average she is ticketed for underage drinking, even if he or she is not behind the wheel. Accidents and traffic citations also increase premiums, so educate your teen to encourage decisions. good driving Let your agent know if your teen moves, which could affect auto cov- erage or if you have questions about insuring your teen driver.
