Though car insurance for 17 year olds will generally turn out to be an expensive deal, there are a few ways to cut costs and lessen the burden. First, let us start with the type of car your teenager will be driving.
Obviously he or she will hardly be enthusiastic about anything that does not scream ‘flashy’ and will not help them draw attention towards their mean machines. Talk them out of it. Such cars will definitely set you back for much in terms of premiums, since the amount levied by insurance companies will be directly proportionate to the cost of the car. Go for a sturdy car or better still, get your teenager started off with a second hand car. An older car will generally be sturdier than a modern one, which in turn will reduce the risk factor and get you cheaper deals on car insurance for young drivers.
An older make will also make sure that the kid will not be able to drive too fast and in a reckless manner, thereby reducing chances of accidents. This will also help them in maintaining a clean driving record. Insurance companies will always pay special attention to a teenager’s driving history, and a good driving record will go a long way in cutting premium costs and overall expenses. Your teenager’s good driving history will play an important role since it will be taken into consideration and you can avail of discounts on the premium.
Getting your teenager his or her individual policy will generally prove to be more expensive, though this also depends on the auto insurance provider. It is usually considered to be cheaper to have them added to your insurance, but do your own research and settle for the one which works best for you.
In some states a young and first time driver is asked to take additional drivers’ education. This can actually work in your favor, since a large number of insurance companies offer discounts on the premium amount if the kid has hours of extra drivers’ education to his credit; this also helps in the long run as it will make him or her a more careful driver.
Increasing the deductible can also help you save money. Another way to get cheaper rates is by asking your teenager to do well in school.
Insurance companies are partial towards kids with better grades, and offer them some cool discounts. This is because a kid who does well in school is though of as responsible, and this attitude is reflected in the way he or she drives. With all the above tips, it should not be difficult for you to get affordable car insurance for 17 year olds.