Auto Insights
A parent’s instinct to worry about their teen driver is well warranted. Motor vehicle crashes are one of the leading causes of death among teens in the United States. Drivers aged 16-19 crash three times as often as drivers over 20, and the risk is highest during their first year of driving, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Common Driving Mistakes Can Lead to Accidents
Research into teen crashes has identified a consistent pattern behind many incidents on the road:
-
Limited hazard scanning—New drivers tend to focus on the road immediately ahead rather than scanning further out, leaving less time to react to hazards.
-
Speed mismatched to conditions—Crashes often involve driving too fast for the circumstances. Wet roads, sharp curves and heavy traffic require slower speeds.
-
Distractions—Phones are a familiar culprit, but passengers and in-car tasks like adjusting the radio can also pull attention away from the road.
All of these concerns are addressable through experience. Supervised practice, especially in more challenging conditions, can help new drivers build new driving skills.
Review Your Auto Insurance Coverage
Adding a new driver to your policy is a milestone for many families. Contact us to review your coverage and help ensure it provides appropriate financial protection.
Wildlife on the Road
Fall is peak season for vehicle-and-wildlife collisions in many areas. Deer, elk, moose and boar strikes are often caused by shorter daylight hours and mating or migration activity.
Drivers can lower their risk in the following ways:
-
Stay alert when traveling at dawn or dusk.
-
Slow down, especially in rural areas.
-
Pay attention to wildlife crossing signs.
-
Scan the roadside in addition to the road ahead.
If an animal darts into the road, brake firmly and try not to swerve, which can lead to a more severe crash.
Animal strikes are typically covered under comprehensive auto insurance, which also handles damage to the insured vehicle from weather, fire or vandalism. Without this coverage, drivers could be left paying out of pocket for vehicle damage caused by wildlife.
Contact us today to check that your policy includes comprehensive coverage before wildlife activity peaks this season.
This newsletter is intended for informational use only. © 2026 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.