Celebrating a Major Step Toward Independence

For teenagers, earning a driver’s license marks a major leap toward independence. It represents freedom, confidence, and the beginning of new responsibilities. For parents, though, that first solo drive can be a mixture of pride and nerves. That’s why Teen Driving Awareness Month each January offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect, celebrate, and reinforce safe habits — both on the road and on your insurance policy.

Why Teenage Drivers Face Heightened Risks

Although roadway crashes have become less common in recent years, teens remain among the most vulnerable groups behind the wheel. In 2021, drivers younger than 20 represented 12.6% of motorists involved in crashes, despite making up just 5.1% of licensed drivers. Their limited experience, tendency toward distraction, and natural overconfidence can make the early stages of driving especially risky.

Driving at night brings additional challenges. Reduced visibility, fatigue, and a higher likelihood of encountering impaired or inattentive drivers increase the difficulty of navigating after dark. For teens still learning to make quick, safe decisions, these conditions can amplify risks significantly.

Daily Habits That Make a Big Difference

The most frequent mistakes made by new drivers are often preventable. Encouraging your teen to follow consistent, simple habits can dramatically improve their safety on the road:

1. Keep Phones Out of Reach

Phone use remains one of the biggest contributors to distracted driving — particularly for teens. Even a few seconds of scrolling, texting, or checking notifications can create a dangerous situation. A good practice is for teens to activate “Do Not Disturb” while driving or store their phone in the glove compartment until they reach their destination.

2. Make Seat Belts Non‑Negotiable

Despite increased awareness, seat belt usage among teens is consistently lower than among older drivers. Yet buckling up can cut the risk of serious injury or death by 50%. Establish a firm rule: everyone in the car buckles up, every time, no exceptions.

3. Prioritize Safe Speeds and Ample Space

Speeding and following too closely are two of the most common issues for new drivers. Remind your teen that getting somewhere safely is always more important than arriving quickly. Leaving extra room between vehicles gives them more time to react — a crucial advantage for less experienced drivers.

4. Minimize Driving Risks When Possible

Setting boundaries can help teens stay focused behind the wheel. This might include limiting nighttime driving or capping the number of passengers until they gain more confidence. Reducing distractions and stressful situations gives teens the chance to build strong driving habits at their own pace.

Don’t Overlook the Insurance Considerations

Once your teen becomes a licensed driver, it’s also the right time to review your auto insurance. Adding them to your current policy is usually the most cost-effective approach, but it’s important to make sure your coverage is equipped to protect your family properly.

Key areas to assess include:

• Higher liability limits: Helps cover medical expenses or property damage if your teen causes an accident.
• Collision coverage: Pays for repairs to your vehicle if it’s damaged in a crash.
• Comprehensive coverage: Protects your vehicle from theft, vandalism, weather events, and other non-collision losses.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: Provides support if your teen is involved in a collision with a driver who lacks sufficient insurance.

Your insurance agent can walk you through each option, helping you balance cost and protection. This is also a perfect moment to explore potential savings — such as discounts for strong academic performance, driver‑education programs, or vehicles equipped with modern safety technology.

A Month to Celebrate Progress and Strengthen Safety

Teen Driving Awareness Month is more than just another date on the calendar. It’s a reminder of your teen’s growth and an opportunity to help them prepare for the road ahead. By offering guidance, encouraging open conversations, and ensuring your coverage fits your family’s needs, you can help your young driver develop skills and habits that promote safety for years to come.

If you’re ready to review your current auto policy or explore options for adding a teen driver, reach out to our office anytime. We’re here to help you navigate this exciting milestone with confidence and peace of mind.