How Can a Teen Driver Get Lower Auto Insurance Rates
Reader’s Question:
I am going to get my driver’s license here in Wisconsin very soon. I know I will be added to my dad’s policy since I am a licensed driver now. Is there any way I can soften the blow to the auto insurance premiums he’s going to be paying since I am a teen driver and the rates are much higher?
Harold
Milwaukee, WI
You are right. Your inclusion in your dad’s auto insurance policy will raise his auto insurance premium. When a teenager is added to somebody’s auto insurance policy, and I assume that’s what you are, that somebody’s risk factor is affected negatively. Teenagers are statistically known to be reckless and inexperienced–not a very good combination. Your willingness to minimize the effect of your inclusion to your dad’s auto insurance, however, is commendable and a good sign.
There may be some things a teenager can do to minimize this negative impact on your father’s auto insurance premium rate. Of course, you’ll have to check this with your father’s auto insurance company in Wisconsin. You may enroll in a driving school that is acknowledged by your dad’s auto insurance company. Usually, auto insurance companies extend discounts to those drivers with defensive driving backgrounds. Having good grades at school can also help your dad. I’m not talking about your dad’s peace of mind about your academic performance, but auto insurance recognizes the link between diligent students and good driving habits. They believe that students who do well in school, those maintaining a B average or higher, will be very responsible on the road.
Ask for discounts, you never know what you might be able to get and how much you can save by asking. Some popular discounts can be given for:
1. Military personnel
2. Good grade students
3. Union membership and bank member affiliations
4. Safe drivers with no claims in last 7 years
5. Defensive driving school attendance
6. Clean credit history – used by many carriers to determine payment risk
Although adding you to your dad’s insurance will raise the auto insurance premium, it is usually cheaper than having your own auto insurance coverage. And you can tell your dad that.
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