Turning 18 means you are officially an adult. Now, you’re responsible for all of your own life choices and decisions. You may already be driving. You may own a car, or you are planning to purchase one. Your goal should always be to have a policy that matches your life and your needs. Now that you are a bit older, there are a few things to update with your auto insurance agent. Here’s where to focus now.
Ask for a Lower Car Insurance Rate
As a new driver at the age of 16 or 17, you were the highest risk to the insurance company for accidents. Inexperience causes this.
Have you had any tickets or received any moving violations? If not, your agent may be able to offer you a better rate now that you are 18. Keep in mind that most women see their rates fall by the time they are 20 to 22. For men, the age is a bit older due to men being statistically higher risks to insurers. In short – ask for a discount in a couple of years, too.
Consider Ownership of Your Vehicle
At the age of 18, you may be thinking about putting your vehicle in your own name. This could seem like a good thing. However, it may cost less if it remains in a parent’s name. This may be acceptable as long as you are still living at home. By remaining on your parent’s insurance policy, your costs will likely be lower than what you may pay on your own.
Are you planning to buy a new car? If so, be sure to consider your costs for insurance beforehand. You will find your agent is happy to help you learn what to expect here.
Are You Going Away to School?
For those who are seniors and thinking about college next year, it is important to consider what this means to your car insurance. If you plan to leave your car at home, adjusting your policy to account for this could mean a significant discount in costs. If you plan to take your car with you, be sure to let your agent know that as well. They’ll need to know where your car is.
Focus on making wise decisions in these early years. Avoid accidents. Don’t have numerous claims on your car insurance policy. Doing this can help to reduce your costs significantly in the long term.
FAQ’s About Car Insurance for 18 Year Olds
Why is car insurance more expensive for 18-year-olds?
Car insurance is more expensive for 18-year-olds because they are considered high-risk drivers due to their lack of driving experience and tendency to engage in riskier driving behaviors.
What factors affect the cost of car insurance for 18-year-olds?
Factors that affect the cost of car insurance for 18-year-olds include their driving record, the type of car they drive, their location, and their credit score.
Can 18-year-olds get discounts on car insurance?
Yes, 18-year-olds can get discounts on car insurance by maintaining good grades, completing a driver’s education course, and having a safe driving record.
What type of car should 18-year-olds buy to get lower insurance rates?
18-year-olds should consider buying a car with safety features such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control to get lower insurance rates.
How much car insurance coverage should 18-year-olds get?
18-year-olds should get enough car insurance coverage to protect themselves and their assets in case of an accident, which typically includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage.
Can 18-year-olds be added to their parents’ car insurance policy?
Yes, 18-year-olds can be added to their parents’ car insurance policy, which is often a more affordable option than buying their own policy.
What happens if 18-year-olds get into a car accident without insurance?
If 18-year-olds get into a car accident without insurance, they may be responsible for paying for damages out of pocket and could face legal consequences.
How can 18-year-olds lower their car insurance premiums?
18-year-olds can lower their car insurance premiums by maintaining a good driving record, choosing a car with lower insurance rates, and taking advantage of available discounts.
What should 18-year-olds do if they can’t afford car insurance?
18-year-olds who can’t afford car insurance should consider alternative transportation options such as public transit or carpooling, or they can look into low-cost insurance options such as state-sponsored programs.
Is it legal for 18-year-olds to drive without car insurance?
No, it is not legal for 18-year-olds to drive without car insurance in most states. Driving without insurance can result in fines, license suspension, and other legal consequences.
Car insurance costs for 18-year-olds across states
The cost of car insurance for an 18-year-old can vary significantly depending on the state where they live. While we cannot provide specific numbers for every state, it’s important to note that factors like state regulations, population density, and accident rates can contribute to the difference in prices.
Discounts available for young drivers
There are discounts available for 18-year-old drivers. Insurance companies often provide various discounts to encourage safe driving habits and reward their customers. Some common discounts for young drivers may include:
- Good student discounts: Some insurers offer discounts for maintaining a high-grade average in school.
- Driver’s education discounts: Completing a driver’s education course can lead to lower premiums for young drivers.
- Defensive driving course discounts: Successfully completing a defensive driving course can help you improve your driving skills and qualify for discounts.
We recommend contacting your insurance provider to learn more about the specific discounts they may offer.
Impact of gender on car insurance rates at 18
Gender can also play a role in determining car insurance rates for 18-year-olds. Statistically, young male drivers are often deemed more risky compared to their female counterparts, resulting in higher premiums. However, it is essential to remember that each insurance provider evaluates risks differently, and factors like driving record and location also impact the overall cost. As a result, rates can vary between different insurers, so it is advisable to shop around and compare quotes before making a decision.