Reader’s Question:

How much should I be expecting to pay if I add a new teenager driver on my policy?

Beth

Miami, FL

Since teenagers that are newly licensed have such high rates of accidents they cost more to insure than an experienced driver who is more prone to avoid an accident than cause it.

The costs of adding a new teenager driver will depend upon your current car insurance rates, your geographical location and your teen to name a few. For example, if you live in a congested area where your teen is more likely to be involved in an accident compared to a more rural or suburban area the rate to insure your teenager will likely be more.

As for the teenager themselves, insurance rates may vary due to if they have taken formal driving lessons or driver’s education and if you are able to get any type of discount for their grades. If you have a teen that maintains a higher GPA this may allow you to cut costs for car insurance.

Reader’s Question:

I want to know what will happen if I get pulled over and I have no insurance? I’m under the age of 18 and I live in KY.

Jane

Newark, NJ

The State of Kentucky requires all drivers to carry liability coverage in the amounts of 25/50/10. The penalties for operating a vehicle without Kentucky auto insurance can be rather severe. First offense that you are caught, you will need to go to court and can be fined between $500 to $1000 or be imprisoned for not more than 90 days or both.

Your KY auto registration and license plates can be suspended for one year or until proof of auto insurance is provided. It is also possible that you will lose your license for up to a year. The penalties will increase for each subsequent infraction of not having proper proof of auto insurance.

If you do not yet have your full Kentucky license because of the graduated licensing system and being under 18, there may be other penalties.