Insuring Your Teen Driver

When it is time for your teenager to obtain their driver’s license, it is exciting but at the same time, a little intimidating for parents. While teens can wait to get behind the wheel,  parents have several things to do before and after that happens to ensure peace of mind.

One of the concerns many parents have is obtaining auto insurance for their teens, and they worry about how much money it will cost. Here are some tips for securing insurance for your teen without going broke.

Use Your Policy

It is less expensive to add your teen driver to your existing auto insurance policy than to obtain a brand new policy for him or her only. This will also help maintain your current insurance status, especially if you have not had any accidents or citations for at least five years.

Type of Vehicle

Much like any other insurance policy, it will cost more to insure a sports car versus a family-style sedan. Just because your teen wants a Mustang GTO does not mean you have to purchase them one. Opt for a vehicle that gets good gas mileage, is dependable and safe and will not break the bank when you obtain insurance for it.

Follow the Law

Parents should update themselves on the laws in their state. In Connecticut, teens must be 16-years-old to take a test to obtain their learner’s permit. They then must drive only when accompanied by a parent, guardian, or driving instructor who have valid driver’s licenses.

A teen must practice driving for at least 40 hours with one of the adults listed above and must take at least 22 hours of classroom training before taking their driver’s exam. They must also take an eight-hour class about safe-driving techniques from a driving or secondary school that is licensed by the state of Connecticut. After all of this is completed, they can take their driving examination which includes a road test.

Raise the Deductible and Look for Discounts

Two other ways to keep costs down is to increase the deductible on your policy. The higher the deductible, the lower your insurance premiums will be to insure your teen driver. Also, if your teen gets good grades, you may be entitled to a discount.

The West Hartford, CT agents with ALLConnecticut Insurance can assist you in obtaining auto insurance for your teen driver and answer any questions you may have.

Ways to Make Your Home and Property Safe All Winter

During winter you’re undoubtedly juggling many things, as you are trying to keep your house warm and cozy, working to keep your vehicle maintained, while also handling the usual day-to-day responsibilities. But also make sure you pay close attention to keeping your home and property safe during the winter. Here are some valuable tips, courtesy of ALLConnecticut Insurance serving West Hartford, CT.

Sidewalks and driveway

The area around your house can get super slippery during the winter. Head off the danger by remembering to thoroughly clear all ice and snow from sidewalks and your driveway. Just take your time and prevent painful injuries.

Fireplace safety

The warmth and glow from your fireplace can provide comfort, relaxation, and beauty during the cold-weather months. But it can also be a serious hazard. Manage the risk by constantly monitoring any fire in the fireplace and making sure that sparks do not fly out of the fireplace. Also, keep the fireplace cleaned and maintained at all times.

Candle safety

Candles can also provide a lot of beauty and ambiance in your home during the winter. But they should be closely monitored, which means you should never leave the room when a candle is burning. And keep a close eye on any candle that is burning.

Electrical items

Electrical items are another type of potential risk in your home. Make sure you thoroughly inspect all electrical items regularly and look for problem issues like old or frayed cords. Repair or discard items as needed.

It doesn’t take much time or energy to monitor your home for safety issues during the winter. If you need more ideas or would like to get information on home insurance, feel free to contact ALLConnecticut Insurance serving West Hartford, CT.