Mark Bigham | Jan 07 2026 16:00
Obtaining a driver’s license is a significant milestone for teenagers, marking a step towards independence and responsibility. For parents, this can be both an exciting and nerve-wracking time as their teen takes to the road for the first time. January, as Teen Driving Awareness Month, serves as an ideal opportunity to celebrate and emphasize the importance of safety — both in driving practices and on your insurance policy.
Understanding the Risks for Teen Drivers
Despite a decline in overall crash rates recently, teenagers remain amongst the most vulnerable drivers
on the road. In 2021, while drivers under 20 made up only 5.1% of licensed drivers, they represented 12.6% of drivers involved in crashes. New drivers face higher risks due to inexperience, distraction, and overconfidence, especially during the initial periods behind the wheel.
Driving at night poses additional challenges. Reduced visibility, fatigue, and the prevalence of impaired or distracted drivers during nighttime make it particularly dangerous, significantly affecting teens who are still mastering how to handle these situations calmly.
Life-Saving Driving Habits
Several common mistakes made by teenage drivers can be avoided by adopting some simple habits:
Keep the Phone Away.
Distracted driving is a major hazard. A momentary glance at a text or social media can lead to devastating accidents. Encourage your teen to use “Do Not Disturb” mode on their phone while driving or to keep it stored in the glove compartment until they reach their destination.
Always Buckle Up.
The rate of seat belt use among teens is lower
compared to adults, yet wearing a seat belt cuts the risk of serious injury or death by half. Insist on this being a rule for everyone in the car, regardless of the trip’s length.
Reduce Speed and Maintain Distance.
Speeding and following too closely are frequent errors by new drivers. Reinforce to your teen that safety is more important than speed, and leaving more space allows for better reaction time.
Manage Risk Appropriately.
Set clear guidelines for driving at night and limit the number of passengers your teen can carry until they gain more experience. Fewer distractions will help them stay attentive and mindful.
Insurance Considerations
As your teen earns their license, it’s also an opportune time to reassess your auto insurance. Typically, adding your new driver to an existing policy is cost-effective, but make sure that your coverage suits your family’s requirements.
Focus on these insurance aspects:
- Higher liability limits: These provide protection against expenses from medical bills or property damage if your teen is at fault in a severe accident.
- Collision coverage: Pays for repairs to your vehicle after an accident.
- Comprehensive coverage: Covers incidents not related to collisions, such as theft, vandalism, or weather damage.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: Safeguards against insufficiently insured drivers.
Your insurance agent can guide you through these options, helping you balance between adequate protection and affordability. It’s also a good time to look into discounts for good grades, driver-training programs, or safety-feature-equipped vehicles.
Looking Ahead with Confidence
January isn’t just a time for awareness; it’s about celebrating your teen’s progress and preparing them for their journey ahead. With encouragement, constant communication, and appropriate coverage, you can equip your young driver with confidence and habits that promote safety for a lifetime.
If you need assistance reviewing your auto policy or exploring options for adding your teen, contact us today. We’re here to ensure this exciting milestone is met with peace of mind.