Traffic crashes result in 44 percent of teen deaths, the leading cause of teen fatalities in the U.S., according to the National Safety Council. But driving and insurance experts agree: parents can play a big role in helping their teens stay safe.
QBE has several tips to help you protect your teen driver when he or she gets behind the wheel:
- Monitor your teen's driving habits and vehicle condition.
- Put your child in a safe vehicle. Avoid performance features such as turbo-charged engines and high-performance tires that encourage dangerous driving.
- Maintain a safe vehicle by paying special attention to tire condition and pressure, brakes, window washer fluid, blades, headlights and tail lights.
- Discuss and draw up a driving contract outlining responsibilities for vehicle maintenance and driving safety. Also discuss the consequences if rules are broken.
- Avoid citations. Even non-traffic citations, like curfew violations or drinking tickets, can impact auto insurance rates.
- Consult your insurance agent before reporting a small claim. You might save money in the long run by paying for repairs out of your own pocket.
For more information contact your independent insurance agent.