There are over 6 million documented car accidents in the United States per year, and a hefty percentage of that number is made up of young drivers, typically between the ages of 16 and 24. In fact, 16 year olds are more likely to be involved in a car crash than any other age group. While safe and thorough driving instruction might serve as a preventative measure, these statistics also clearly demonstrate the importance of car insurance for young drivers.

Common Hazards

Young drivers are not only inexperienced on the road, but are often more reckless than older drivers. Teen drivers, more likely to live under the illusion of invincibility, will exercise less caution while driving; this behavior often includes texting while driving, not wearing seatbelts, and speeding. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), almost 40% of young male drivers involved in accidents were speeding, and documented cellphone use while driving is highest in the 16-24 age group.

Accident Statistics

The disproportionate number of accidents in which teen drivers are involved also exhibits the importance of car insurance for young drivers. Studies show that teenagers between the ages of 16-19 are four times more likely to be in a car accident than any other age group, and around 400,000 drivers in that same age group are injured in crashes each year. Additionally, while teenagers only constitute 10% of the population, they make up over 12% of car accident deaths.

Rural Areas

Surprisingly, the importance of teenage car insurance is most pressing in rural areas. Though these areas are characterized by smaller populations and less traffic, they also document 30% more crash fatalities than city areas, and a great majority of the accidents as a whole involve teenage drivers. Most of the time, these accidents occur when a vehicle hits an animal (often a deer), or when cars run off the side of dimly lit or unlit roads.

Insurance Costs for Young Drivers

Despite these many risk factors and telling statistics, many parents hesitate to purchase auto insurance for teenagers due to the high cost: because teenagers are at such a high risk for accidents, the premiums can cost $1000 for a 6 month plan. However, when one considers the fact that one accident can cost thousands of dollars in repair, and that young drivers account for 30% of the nearly 30 billion dollars in accident costs each year, this insurance becomes a necessary expense—and one that most often saves money.

Ways to Reduce Premiums for Young Drivers

Though the insurance premiums may be costly, the importance of car insurance for young drivers cannot be ignored. Many insurance companies realize this, and offer lower rates under a variety of different circumstances. For example, costs can be reduced for teen drivers who have a clean driving record, take a defensive driving course, maintain a B average, exhibit civic responsibility, and drive a “safe” car like a Volvo (which has proven less likely to be involved in citations and accidents).

The exorbitant number of accidents and high-risk behavior typical of teenagers proves the importance of car insurance for young drivers. This insurance cannot prevent accidents, but it can save families thousands of dollars in the unfortunate event that an accident should occur. A great way to obtain cheap car insurance for young drivers is to comparison shop. Be sure to visit the form at the top of our page to see how much you could save on your insurance today by receiving many auto insurance quotes to help you compare and save.