Learning to drive is a defining moment in a teenager’s life — a clear step toward independence and a new level of responsibility. For parents, watching their child pull away from the house for the first time brings a mix of pride and understandable worry. That’s why January’s Teen Driving Awareness Month offers the perfect chance to acknowledge this big transition, reflect on safety, and take a closer look at your family’s insurance coverage.
Why Teen Drivers Face Greater Risks
Although roadway safety has improved overall in recent years, teenagers still remain one of the most vulnerable groups on the road. In 2021, drivers under the age of 20 represented just 5.1% of licensed drivers but accounted for 12.6% of all drivers involved in collisions. Limited experience, a tendency toward distraction, and early driving overconfidence create a risky combination — especially during those first few months behind the wheel.
Driving at night intensifies these challenges. Reduced visibility, tiredness, and an increased presence of impaired or distracted drivers make evening hours more dangerous for everyone. For teens still learning how to respond in unpredictable situations, this environment can heighten the likelihood of mistakes.
Simple Habits That Make a Big Difference
Many common teen driving errors can be avoided through consistent, proactive routines. Encouraging your teen to adopt the following habits can significantly improve their safety on the road.
Put Away the Phone
Technology is one of the biggest temptations for young drivers. A single glance at a text or notification can be enough to cause a serious accident. Help your teen create a routine of turning on “Do Not Disturb” before they start the car or placing their phone in the glove box until they reach their destination.
Always Buckle Up
Seat belt use among teenagers is consistently below adult levels, even though wearing one significantly reduces the risk of severe injury or death. Make seat belt use an uncompromising rule for everyone in the vehicle, no matter how short or familiar the trip may be.
Be Mindful of Speed and Space
New drivers often struggle with speeding or following other vehicles too closely. Remind your teen that getting to their destination safely is far more important than getting there fast. Leaving extra room between cars gives them more time to react — a critical skill for less experienced drivers.
Reduce Exposure to High-Risk Situations
Setting boundaries can help your teen adjust more safely. Limit nighttime driving when possible and consider restricting the number of passengers until they’ve built more confidence and competence behind the wheel. Fewer distractions mean better focus.
Don’t Overlook the Insurance Implications
Once your teen earns their license, it’s also time to review your auto insurance. Adding them to your current policy is typically the most cost-effective approach, but you’ll want to confirm that your coverage is strong enough to protect your family should an accident occur.
Take some time to look over these key components:
- Higher liability limits: Helps cover medical bills or property damage if your teen is responsible for a major accident.
- Collision coverage: Pays for repairs to your car after a crash, regardless of who is at fault.
- Comprehensive coverage: Offers protection for non‑collision incidents such as theft, storms, or vandalism.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: Steps in when the other driver lacks enough insurance to cover the damages.
Your insurance agent can break down each option and help you choose the right balance of protection and affordability. This is also a good time to explore possible savings, such as discounts for strong academic performance, completion of driver-training programs, or driving vehicles equipped with advanced safety features.
A Month for Encouragement — and Preparation
Teen Driving Awareness Month isn’t just a formality on the calendar. It’s an opportunity to acknowledge your teen’s growing independence while reinforcing the importance of safe habits behind the wheel. With steady guidance, open conversations about risk, and the right insurance protection in place, you can help your new driver gain confidence and develop skills that will serve them for years to come.
If you’re ready to review your policy or need help evaluating options as your teen begins their driving journey, reach out to our office anytime. We’re here to support your family through every milestone — and to help ensure these exciting moments come with peace of mind.