Any parent that has taught their child to drive knows how terrifying it can be. Finally letting go of the reigns and giving your child that first breath of independence is both exciting and scary. We've covered what you should know about adding a young driver to your policy previously. Another question we get asked frequently is how you should go about choosing the right car for your young driver. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Reliability
First and foremost, your child’s safety should be a top priority. Typically, a mid-size car with a low center of gravity is the safest bet for a young driver. Try not to get too hung up on the aesthetics of the car, as your young driver is really learning how to drive this vehicle. There will be a few scratches and dents along the way. As a rule of thumb, avoid performance cars, SUVs, or any models that encourage reckless behavior. The higher the horsepower of the vehicle, the more tempting it would be to speed and drive recklessly. Aftermarket add-ons can be distracting as well. As much as your teen will want all the bells and whistles, it’s best to keep things simple.
Keep your insurance in mind
Contact your insurance agent and compare car models. Typically, insuring a young driver can be expensive. You can expect your premium to almost double when you add a new driver to your policy (that’s not including a car for them, as well). Make sure you’re working closely with your independent insurance agent to choose the best coverage and vehicle for your bottom line and of course, your child's safety.
Don't rush it
There’s never a right or wrong time to purchase your teen a car. Every driver is different, but it is important to remember that although your child has their license, they are still very much learning. When you are purchasing your teen a car, it should be a family decision. There should be a clear set of rules and guidelines for your child and their vehicle. Using incentives for safe, distraction-free driving is always a plus.
If you have questions about your car insurance policy or a policy for a new driver, contact us! We’re happy to be your go-to insurance agent in Kissimmee. At Harrell Agency Services, we offer homeowners insurance in Kissimmee, business insurance in Kissimmee and aviation insurance in Kissimmee. Find us on Facebook or fill out the form below!
