Drive Safely, Save Money

Getting a driver's license is an exciting time for a young adult. A driver's license means more freedom, but also more responsibility. Driving is a dangerous activity for everyone involved. The passengers in your car have a big impact on how safely you drive. In fact, the number of young passengers in the car could be a risk factor for new drivers.

The AAA Safety Foundation found that whenever s teen driver travel has a teen passenger, the risk of a deadly crash increases by 44 percent. When there are two teen passengers, the risk of a fatal crash is double that of driving alone. And with three or more young passengers, the driver's risk of a fatal crash quadruples. 

Hopefully, by  driving safely,  you will not be involved in a serious crash. Consider beforehand the chance that your driving habits and passengers could lead to an expensive accident. Medical bills and damage to your car (and any other involved) could rapidly deplete your savings. Insurance premiums, which are already high for teens, may climb significantly following even a minor crash. Even if you don't have an accident, traffic citations for speeding or running a stoplight can carries heavy fines. And these traffic violations can look very bad if your cause a crash later on.

To avoid such dangers, limit the number of friends and other distractions you have in your vehicle. Also consider regularly driving with an adult, since adult passengers reduce your  risk of fatal accidents. Being a cautious and courteous driver helps protect you, your friends, your finances.

Question for readers: Have you ever been in a car wreck or received a traffic or speeding ticket? Have any of your friends? How were you (or they) affected emotionally and financially?
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Reference:

Stanton, Dr. R. A. (2012, August 19). "Teen drivers need adult guidance: simple steps to help keep them safe." Lexington Herald-Leader. Retrieved August 23, 2012, from http://www.kentucky.com/2012/08/19/2304051/teen-drivers-need-adults-to-guide.html#storylink=misearch.