Earning a driver’s license is a major moment for any teenager. It represents freedom, new opportunities, and the excitement of taking on more responsibility. For parents, though, this milestone brings a mix of pride and nerves as they watch their teen head out onto the road for the first time. That’s why January’s Teen Driving Awareness Month is such a valuable time to reflect on these changes, celebrate progress, and highlight essential safety conversations—both behind the wheel and within your insurance coverage.

Why Teens Face Greater Driving Risks

Even though crash rates have gradually decreased over the years, young drivers continue to rank among the most high‑risk groups on the road. In 2021, drivers under age 20 represented 12.6% of all drivers involved in crashes, despite accounting for only 5.1% of licensed drivers overall. That imbalance highlights the challenges that come with inexperience, susceptibility to distraction, and the confidence that often accompanies learning a new skill.

Driving at night can further amplify those risks. Limited visibility, growing fatigue, and the increased presence of impaired or distracted drivers make evening hours more dangerous for everyone. For teens who are still developing defensive-driving instincts, these conditions can be especially difficult to navigate.

Everyday Habits That Make a Big Difference

Many accidents involving teen drivers can be prevented with small but consistent behavior changes. Reinforcing these habits early can go a long way in helping new drivers stay safe.

Put the Phone Away.
Distractions from texting, notifications, and social media are some of the most common contributors to teen‑related crashes. Encourage your teen to keep their phone on “Do Not Disturb” mode or store it in the glove compartment until the trip is complete.

Always Buckle Up.
Seat belt usage among younger drivers remains consistently lower than that of adults. Yet this simple step can cut the risk of severe injury or death by half. Make seat belts a rule for every ride, no matter how quick or familiar the route may be.

Slow Down and Keep a Safe Distance.
New drivers often underestimate the dangers of speeding or following too closely. Remind your teen that safety—not speed—should always come first. Leaving extra room between vehicles gives them more time to react when something unexpected happens.

Set Boundaries to Reduce Risk.
Placing limits on nighttime driving or the number of passengers can help keep distractions low while your teen builds experience. The fewer outside factors they have to manage, the more they can focus on the road ahead.

The Insurance Considerations You Shouldn’t Overlook

Once your teen is licensed, it’s also time to take a close look at your auto insurance policy. Adding them to your current policy is typically the most cost-effective route, but it’s still important to make sure your coverage levels match your family’s needs.

Here are some key areas worth reviewing:

• Higher liability limits: Helps cover medical or property costs if your teen is responsible for a serious accident.
• Collision coverage: Pays for repairs to your vehicle after a crash, regardless of who is at fault.
• Comprehensive coverage: Protects against damage caused by non‑collision events like weather, vandalism, or theft.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: Offers financial protection if the other driver doesn’t have enough insurance.

Your insurance agent can walk you through each of these options and help you find a balance between solid protection and reasonable premiums. This is also a great time to explore potential discounts—such as savings for teens with strong grades, completion of driver‑education programs, or cars equipped with advanced safety features.

A Month to Celebrate Progress and Encourage Safe Habits

Teen Driving Awareness Month isn’t just about statistics or reminders—it’s a chance to acknowledge how far your teen has come while continuing to prepare them for the responsibilities of the road. With positive reinforcement, regular communication, and the right insurance coverage, you can help your new driver build safe habits that will benefit them for years to come.

If you’d like help reviewing your coverage or adding a teen driver to your policy, our team is here to assist. We’re committed to helping you and your family enjoy this exciting milestone with confidence and peace of mind.