One of the fastest ways to increase your auto insurance premium is to add a teen driver. There are a few ways to lessen the impact of adding a young driver to auto insurance in Nassau County NY parents should know about. By taking some steps before your teenagers gets a driver’s license, you won’t take a huge financial hit when your child starts driving.
Most car insurance companies offer significant discounts to young drivers who get good grades. Teens with a B average or higher, on the dean’s list or honor roll or who score in the top 20 percent on standardized tests may be eligible for discounts between 5 and 35 percent. Teens who do well in school are often more responsible drivers and less likely to take part in risky behaviors such as speeding, texting while driving and driving under the influence of alcohol.
Teens who take part in a safe driving course are often rewarded with lower insurance rates. Defensive and safe driving courses help young drivers prepare for unexpected incidents that can happen on the road. They learn to pay attention to other drivers and to be proactive instead of reactive. Insurance companies offer discounts between 15 and 30 percent to teens and their parents when a young driver on the policy takes a formal driver training course.
Parents may also be able to save money by giving their teens an older vehicle. Insurance rates are typically lower for used cars. However, it is important to talk to your agent before making a decision on the car your teen will drive. Many newer vehicles have safety features that make them eligible for discounts. If you have two particular cars in mind for your young driver, ask your agent which one will result in lower premiums.
When shopping for auto insurance Nassau County NY parents should make sure they know about all of the discounts their insurer offers to teen drivers. While your insurance premium will likely increase when your child starts driving, you can reduce the hit to your budget by taking advantage of safe driver discounts available to parents of teenagers in New York.