E-mail this page Print this page Most E-mailed/Most printed    Type size

Clark Howard's Tips

March 28, 2008

The Wall Street Journal's Personal Journal reports that a number of auto insurers are writing policies for brand-new teenage drivers for the first time in memory. Clark is stunned that Safeco, Nationwide, American Family and Fireman's Fund are among those doing this around the country -- with some conditions.

In addition to requiring safety courses, some insurers want parents to install a camera in their teen's car. DriveCam.com offers one such device that can be monitored remotely.

This is not just about money. The No. 1 cause of death among teenagers is auto accidents. We as parents fear the impact that drugs and alcohol can have on our children's lives, but the thing that's most dangerous is the road.

Several states have begun doing graduated licenses for teens. Clark recently told you that such plans have helped cut back on teen fatalities behind the wheel. As a parent, it may seem creepy to go the camera route. But Clark thinks it's reasonable. Other insurers make teens log their driving and turn in the logs.

A teen's newfound mobility does not mean they have good judgment. Clark's 19 year old recently told him that she thought she was invincible at 15. But she's changed her mind after being through 2 auto accidents where the vehicle was totaled. Thankfully she was not hurt either time.

Consumer advice courtesy of