In 2013 there will be 23% more teen drivers on Minnesota roads than ever before.

What are your risks as the parent of a teen driver?

Many of us dread that day when our son or daughter will begin Driver's Education class. I know I did. Of course the first thing that always comes to mind is what impact is it going to have on your insurance rates?

As insurance agents, we also see the effect of teen drivers involved in crashes. Not only on the victims of the crash, but also the effect on the parents of everyone involved. Many of us want the lowest possible liability coverage available simply in order to reduce the cost of insurance from adding our son or daughter to our insurance. unfortuantely, this is the exact opposite of what parents of teen drivers should do. As parents, we are financially liable for accidents caused by our children. In 2008 the average wrongful death settlement in Minnesota was $1.7 million.

Now, more than ever, we should be increasing the liability coverage on our vehicles. Plus adding a liability umbrella Policy is the most cost efficient insurance item available. It is surprising to find just how little it costs to increase the limits of liability on your auto insurance and to add a liability umbrella policy.

The best plan is to work with our agency and determine what coverages and options you need to protect yourself, as well as , your son or daughter.



• It is illegal for persons under 18 to talk on a cellular/wireless phone while driving, whether hand-held or hands-free, except to call 911 in an emergency.
• It is illegal for drivers of all ages to compose, read, or send text messages or to access the internet using a wireless device while the vehicle is in motion or stopped in traffic.

We are an excellent resource for parents of a new teen driver. For more great info and videos, see our Resources for Parents page.