Few milestones bring as much excitement—and nervousness—as when your teenager gets behind the wheel for the first time. Watching them gain independence is a proud moment for parents, but it also comes with new responsibilities, including making sure your family’s insurance coverage is ready for the road ahead.
At Gill Insurance of the Lowcountry, we help families navigate this important transition with confidence and peace of mind. Here’s what every parent should know before adding a teen driver or their first car to your policy.
1. Review Your Current Coverage
Start by reviewing your current auto policy. Make sure your liability limits are sufficient to protect your family in case of an accident. Teen drivers are still learning, and while accidents are never planned, they do happen more frequently among new drivers.
If your policy only carries state minimum coverage, now may be the time to consider increasing your limits or adding umbrella protection for extra peace of mind.
2. Take Advantage of Safe Driving Discounts
Many insurance companies reward responsible habits. If your teen completes a certified driver’s education course or maintains a clean driving record, you may qualify for safe-driver discounts. Some carriers even offer telematics or smartphone apps that monitor driving behavior—encouraging safer habits and potentially lowering premiums over time.
3. Ask About Good Student Discounts
Encourage your teen to keep those grades up! Students who maintain a “B” average or higher often qualify for good student discounts, which can make a noticeable difference in your premiums. It’s a win-win: your teen stays focused in school, and your family enjoys added savings.
4. Consider the Type of Car Carefully
The kind of vehicle your teen drives matters. Cars with advanced safety features, reasonable horsepower, and solid crash-test ratings tend to cost less to insure. Before purchasing, give us a call—we can help you compare insurance costs on different models so you can make an informed decision.
5. Keep Communication Open
Adding a teen driver is also a great time to talk about responsibility. Discuss safe driving habits, the dangers of distracted driving, and the importance of following all traffic laws. Insurance is there to protect, but prevention always starts with education and accountability.
Ready to Review Your Policy?
As your family grows, your insurance needs evolve. Our team at Gill Insurance of the Lowcountry is here to walk you through every step—from exploring discounts to ensuring your coverage truly fits your family’s needs.
Give us a call or stop by our office today to schedule your free policy review, and let’s make sure your newest driver is covered where it counts.