Young Drivers
My teenager is about to begin driving, what do I do?
State Law requires all drivers to have automobile insurance, this includes teenagers just starting out. If your teenager only has their learners permit, then they are automatically covered under your policy, so there’s no need to do anything, yet.
Do I add my teenager to my policy or should they get their own policy?
This really depends on which car they will be driving. If your teenager is going to be driving your car, then they will be covered under your auto policy the same way that you are. With Erie Insurance, they get the policy benefit of Feature 15 which never allows your policy to be surcharged for an at-fault accident after your policy has been active for 15 years.
If your teenager has their own vehicle, even if you own the title, you can still add them to your own auto policy. This is usually less expensive than having them on their own policy because they get the benefit of your driving record.
If your teenager gets their own policy and has an accident, then their accident will not be reflected on your auto insurance.
As a parent or guardian, you play a significant role in helping your teenager learn to be responsible when they drive. Take the time to talk with your teenager about the importance of safe driving and avoid distracted driving.
Willard Insurance provides young driver insurance in Rocky Mount, Roanoke, Boones Mill, Floyd, Martinsville, Collinsville, and surrounding areas/counties.
Keep your costs in check
The cost to insure teenage drivers is typically more expensive because they lack experience and are in more accidents on average than more experienced drivers. There are ways you can keep their premiums under control however. Some of these ways include:
- Choosing Erie Rate Lock
- With this optional feature, your rate is locked-in and your premium will never change, even if you have an accident and submit a claim – until you add or remove a vehicle, driver or change your residence.
- Change your deductibles
- You can choose to have a different collision and comprehensive deductible for your teenager than for yourself even on the same policy. Choosing a higher deductible typically will lower your premium.
- Taking an accident prevention course
- Erie Insurance offers a discount to teen drivers who complete certain accident prevention programs. Many states only let insurers offer discounts for certain approved programs. Before you enroll in any program, be sure to call us at Willard Insurance to see if the program is eligible.
- Maintain a clean driving record
- Erie has a young driver discount for teens who maintain a clean driving record and who meet a few other requirements. Ask us more about this.
