There are numerous factors parents think about when their child becomes old enough to get their driver’s license—from making sure the teen understands how to stay safe to setting up boundaries and how it’s going to affect their insurance rates. These are all understandable concerns, but the first step to focus on is what type of car to get. That’s because finding the perfect vehicle affects everything else, including their safety and your ability to obtain affordable car insurance.

How to Pick the Perfect Vehicle for Your New Driver

1. Safety

Most parents’ first priority is ensuring the vehicle they choose is equipped to keep their child safe. Accidents are much more common among younger, less experienced drivers, so it’s important to find a vehicle that has all of the necessary safety features. This includes plenty of airbags, collision detection technology, driver assistance, cameras, and an overall high ranking with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

2. Reliability

Another important aspect for finding the right vehicle is picking one that both you and your child are confident won’t break down while they’re out driving. Consumer Reports® offers a handy guide to finding the best makes and models to choose from and is a great guide to finding the right fit. If you’re buying a used car, particularly from a private seller, you’ll have to do some more work. Check the maintenance history of the vehicle and always have it inspected by a trained auto mechanic prior to signing any paperwork.

3. Affordability

Find a vehicle that offers safety and reliability without breaking the bank. Going with a used option is a great way to do this, but it’s also important to think beyond just the initial cost. Maintenance over the life of the vehicle should also be factored in, as well as how it’ll affect the insurance rates. Aspects like safety features installed, age of the vehicle, and what make and model you choose can drastically swing the cost of car insurance.

Prior to making any vehicle purchase for your child, reach out to David R Johnson Insurance Agency Inc. in Beech Grove, IN, to understand how it’ll affect your rates. As one of the area’s leading insurance agents for the past 30 years, David R Johnson will work with you to help you better understand exactly what factors can affect your rates. Schedule an appointment by calling (317) 782-8858 or learn more online.