Celebrating Teen Drivers and Promoting Safer Roads

Christian Huth | Jan 14 2026 16:00

Teen Driving Awareness Month: Guiding New Drivers With Confidence and Care

January marks an important milestone for many families: Teen Driving Awareness Month. For teenagers, earning a driver’s license symbolizes independence, confidence, and an exciting new chapter of responsibility. For parents, it often brings a mix of pride and understandable concern as their teen begins navigating the roads on their own.

This month is a valuable opportunity to pause, reflect, and have open conversations about driving safety—both behind the wheel and through the protection provided by your auto insurance coverage.

Why Teen Drivers Face Higher Risks

Although overall traffic incidents have declined over time, teen drivers remain one of the most vulnerable groups on the road. In 2021, drivers under age 20 accounted for 12.6% of all crash-involved drivers, despite making up just 5.1% of licensed drivers. Limited driving experience, peer influence, and distractions all contribute to this elevated risk—especially during the first months of independent driving.

Nighttime driving presents additional challenges. Reduced visibility, fatigue, and a higher likelihood of impaired or distracted drivers increase the danger. For teens still developing their reaction skills and decision-making abilities, driving after dark can be especially difficult.

Everyday Habits That Help Prevent Accidents

The good news is that many common teen driving mistakes are preventable. Building strong habits early can significantly improve safety and confidence on the road.

Put the Phone Away

Texting, notifications, and social media can quickly turn a routine drive into a dangerous situation. Encourage your teen to silence their phone, enable “Do Not Disturb” mode, or place it out of reach until they arrive safely.

Always Buckle Up

Teen seat belt use tends to be lower than that of adults, even though seat belts dramatically reduce the risk of serious injury or death. Make buckling up a non-negotiable rule for everyone in the vehicle—every trip, every time.

Slow Down and Leave Space

Speeding and following too closely are common mistakes among new drivers. Reinforce that arriving safely matters far more than saving a few minutes. Extra space between vehicles gives your teen more time to react to the unexpected.

Limit Distractions

Setting guidelines around nighttime driving and limiting passengers can help new drivers stay focused. Fewer distractions allow teens to build confidence and develop safe habits more quickly.

The Insurance Conversations That Matter

When your teen becomes a licensed driver, it’s also the right time to review your auto insurance. Adding a teen to an existing policy is often the most cost-effective option, but it’s important to make sure your coverage truly protects your family.

Key areas to review include:

  • Higher liability limits – Helps protect your finances if your teen causes an accident involving injuries or property damage

  • Collision coverage – Covers repairs to your vehicle after an accident

  • Comprehensive coverage – Protects against non-accident losses like theft, vandalism, weather damage, or hitting an animal

  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage – Provides protection if your teen is involved in an accident with a driver who lacks adequate insurance

Your insurance agent can help you balance affordability with proper protection and identify potential discounts, such as good-student incentives, driver education programs, or vehicle safety features.

Supporting Growth, Safety, and the Road Ahead

Teen Driving Awareness Month is more than a reminder—it’s a chance to recognize your teen’s progress while helping them build habits that will keep them safe for years to come. With consistent guidance, open communication, and the right insurance coverage, you’re setting your new driver up for long-term success and confidence.

If you’d like help reviewing your auto policy or have questions about adding your teen driver, our team is here for you. This milestone should be exciting—and we’re committed to helping you enjoy it with clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.