Getting your youngster’s driver’s license can represent moments of freedom as well as anxiety. ASSURANCES GROUPE VÉZINA offers you this useful information to help you face this new step with peace of mind.
Notify your broker as soon as there’s a change in the use of your vehicle
As soon as your youngster obtains his learner’s permit and starts driving your car with you, call your broker to have him added to your insurance policy as an occasional driver. This is an important precaution, because in the event of an accident (whether at-fault or not), the insurer may impose certain conditions when settling the claim. Of course, the addition of this new driver will have an impact on your premium, which will be adjusted according to various factors, including age and gender.
Later, when your young driver obtains his probationary license and drives alone, be sure to inform your broker of the new type of license he holds and the frequency with which he will use your vehicle.
Inform your young driver about the right behaviors to adopt, and make him/her aware of his/her responsibilities!
Here are two good topics to discuss with your young driver, to make him or her aware of the mistakes most often made by young drivers and, above all, of their consequences:
- Never drink and drive!
The law forbids holders of a learner’s or probationary licence to have even the slightest trace of alcohol in their blood when behind the wheel. If you’ve had a drink, don’t drive! Appointing a designated non-alcoholic driver, using a ride-hailing service, calling a cab or taking the bus are good solutions.
If your teenager is caught with a higher alcohol level than the legal limit :
- his license will be automatically suspended and he will have to notify his broker immediately;
- his insurance premium will rise sharply;
- other costs will be added: vehicle storage, installation of an alcohol ignition interlock device, legal fees, etc.
Don’t think you’re invincible or accident-proof!
According to the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ), the main causes of accidents among young people are inexperience, recklessness, drugs and speed.
It’s important to make your teen aware of these risk factors! Why is it important? Because most young people believe they are safe from accidents. In fact, 63% of them underestimate the risk of having a road accident*. All the more reason not to let your youngster get off on the wrong foot!
* According to a survey commissioned by Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) and Groupement des assureurs automobiles (GAA) in 2013.
ASSURANCES GROUPE VÉZINA is here to help you with loss prevention. Don’t hesitate to contact us!
