What to Do When Your Teen Starts Driving

The day your teen starts to drive is both a blessing and a curse. You’ve been toting him or her around with their friends for years. You’re ready for your teen to spread their wings and fly. What you’re not ready for, however, is the anxiety and fear that comes with your son or daughter being on the road on their own. While you’ll be spending months teaching them the basics of driving, this is a time of learning for both your teen and you.

This may not be the first thing that comes to mind when your teenager starts to drive, but a conversation needs to happen with your insurance agent. Adjusting your insurance to cover the new risk is crucial. Discuss the effects of having a new, inexperienced driver on your policy. Having this conversation will inform you about all the risks and responsibilities that come with your teenager becoming a licensed driver. Because your teenager is a minor, you are still financially responsible for them. You are obligated to sign for this responsibility at the time your teenager gets his/her permit or license.

What exactly does being financially responsible for your teenager mean? This puts all of your assets at risk–your home, car, savings, etc. This is because if your teen has an accident that exceeds your liability limits, the other party can hire a lawyer to get proper compensation for injuries and damage. If necessary, the judge will garnish your wages. A conversation with your agent is so important–they will help you decide whether you need higher limits to help protect your assets.

Yet another financial responsibility you’ll face is if your teenager gets a speeding ticket. This will increase your insurance rates substantially. It’s possible that with just a few speeding tickets your insurance premium could increase by up to thousands of dollars–and not just for the first year, but for up to three to five years following, potentially leading to policy cancellation.

Your knowledge of what’s at stake is one thing. You must also make sure your teenager knows what kind of risks you’re facing as a family. To help reduce the risks, it’s a good idea to only allow your teen certain privileges–enforce a curfew and do not allow passengers until your son or daughter is more experienced. Set boundaries and rules to help teach your teen, and allow them more privileges when you feel they are ready.

Don’t go into this blind–know your risks and be prepared to help prevent unfavorable circumstances.

By: KayLynn P.

Leave a Comment





The Art of Automotive Customization: A Deep Dive

December 24, 2024

Architectural Adaptations: How Geography Shapes Home Design

December 23, 2024

Timeless Toys: The Classics That Endure

December 20, 2024

Lowering Business Insurance Costs: A Proactive Approach

December 19, 2024

Simple Chicken, Healthy Living

December 18, 2024

Protecting Yourself and Your Pets: Understanding Homeowners Insurance Liability

December 16, 2024

The Curious Origins of College Nicknames

December 13, 2024

Securing Your Business: The Power of Insurance

December 12, 2024

A Gift of Protection: Life Insurance for Children

December 11, 2024

A Car Collector’s Guide: Understanding Vehicle Classifications

December 10, 2024

Unraveling the Mysteries of Homeowners Insurance

December 9, 2024

Tearjerkers: Movies That Will Make You Reach for the Tissues

December 6, 2024

Is It Time for a Business Insurance Review?

December 5, 2024

To Work or Not to Work: The Pros and Cons of Teen Employment

December 4, 2024

Car Stolen? Here’s What to Do Next

December 3, 2024

Deck the Halls: Weighing the Pros and Cons of Professional Holiday Lighting

December 2, 2024

Woodstock: More Than Just Music

November 29, 2024

Protect Your Business: The Importance of Liability Insurance

November 28, 2024

Breaking Free from the Rut: Injecting Excitement into Your Life

November 27, 2024

Small Steps, Big Rewards: The Power of Achievable Goals

November 20, 2024

The Toyota 2000GT: A Game-Changer in the Automotive World

November 19, 2024

The Appalachian Trail: A Hiker’s Dream

November 15, 2024

Down on the Corner: A Business Indicator for the Ages

November 14, 2024

The Ironies of Life Insurance: Why You Need It Now

November 13, 2024

Why Car Insurance Rates Are Rising: A Breakdown of Contributing Factors

November 12, 2024

Stress-Free Landlording: The Benefits of Hiring a Property Manager

November 11, 2024

Don’t Let Liability Claims Ruin Your Business

November 7, 2024

6 Simple Steps to a Longer Life

November 6, 2024

Maximize Your Return: Tips for Selling Your Used Car to a Private Buyer

November 5, 2024

Protecting Your Condo: Understanding Condo Insurance

November 4, 2024

A Century of Entertainment: From Train Wrecks to Streaming Services

November 1, 2024

Fascinating Facts About Cars and Driving

October 29, 2024

Moving Made Easier: Tips for a Stress-Free Transition

October 28, 2024

Top 10 Blog Topics: What’s Trending in the Digital World?

October 25, 2024

A Century of Retail: From Department Stores to Online Shopping

October 24, 2024

Using Your Smartphone for Self-Care and Inspiration

October 23, 2024

Electric Vehicles: Beyond the Hype

October 22, 2024

Navigating College Living: A Guide for Parents

October 21, 2024

Radio: More Than Just Noise

October 18, 2024

Protecting Your Business: Why Insurance is Essential

October 17, 2024

Three Numbers That Shape Your Life

October 16, 2024

The SUV Revolution: Porsche’s Cayenne Turbo GT Redefines the Luxury SUV

October 15, 2024

From Simple to Super: The Evolution of the Red Wagon

October 11, 2024

Protect Your Event: The Importance of Special Event Insurance

October 10, 2024

Your Life Insurance Application: A Blueprint for a Healthier Life

October 9, 2024

Understanding Auto Insurance: A Simple Guide

October 8, 2024

Save on Homeowners Insurance: 5 Simple Tips

October 7, 2024

The Penny: A Relic of the Past?

October 4, 2024

Protect Your Profession: The Importance of Professional Liability Insurance

October 3, 2024

More Than Just a Cup of Joe: The True Cost of Your Daily Brew

October 2, 2024

Driving Down Costs: Long-Term Strategies and Instant Savings on Car Insurance

October 1, 2024

America’s Party Capitals: Where the Fun Never Stops

September 27, 2024

From Lemonade Stands to Launchpads: The Entrepreneurial Spirit

September 26, 2024

The True Cost of Loss: Why Life Insurance Matters

September 25, 2024

From Keychains to Keyless Entry: The Evolution of Auto Industry Promo Items

September 24, 2024

Clutter Crisis: Common Household Multipliers

September 23, 2024

America’s Spookiest Destinations: A Chilling Exploration

September 20, 2024

Beyond the Daily Grind: Crafting Your Business Exit Strategy

September 19, 2024

Sleep Better Tonight: The Unexpected Benefits of Life Insurance

September 18, 2024

Is It Time for a Car Insurance Checkup? Key Moments to Reevaluate Your Coverage

September 17, 2024

Contact Us

-CONTACT US

OUR LOCATION

Have A Question?

We have an answer. Call us at 1-925-683-9743

2010 Crow Canyon Place, Suite 100 San Ramon, CA 94583

1-925-683-9743
CA License #0B30027

© Copyright 2024 Michael Smith Insurance Solutions  |   All Rights Reserved
Site by ICA Agency Alliance

2010 Crow Canyon Place, Suite 100 San Ramon, CA 94583
1-925-683-9743
CA License #0B30027

© Copyright 2024 Michael Smith Insurance Solutions  |   All Rights Reserved
Site by ICA Agency Alliance