Getting your driver’s license is a thrilling experience. On the one hand, you might be nervous about completing the test, while on the other hand, you might be dreaming of your newfound freedom. Once you’ve done the work, studied hard, and passed your driver’s test, congratulations—you’re officially a new driver! Now that you have your driver’s license in hand, it’s time to get yourself and your vehicle ready to hit the road with the help of our team at Cornerstone Insurance!
Here are our top ten tips for first-time drivers:
Work with an Insurance Broker To Get the Best Quote
We understand that car insurance for new drivers can be expensive, but choosing the right car insurance policy as a first-time driver is one of the most important decisions you will make, and it is ultimately an investment in your own safety. At Cornerstone Insurance, our brokers will work with you to find the most affordable insurance premium that works for you and your vehicle.
Here’s what our Cornerstone Insurance brokers will do to help find you the best rates for your budget:
- Assess your risk
- Record your vehicle make and model
- Estimate your annual mileage
- Determine the level of coverage you can afford
- Apply any applicable discounts and find your best policy
Take Time to Understand Your Insurance
There are different levels of auto insurance coverage depending on your budget and other factors, such as your driving record. That said, as a first-time driver, it’s likely that you are starting from scratch and that the main reason for a high insurance premium is that you are a new driver that has not yet been insured before.
Here are some common types of car insurance coverage that drivers can include on their auto policy:
- Third-party only
- Third-party comprehensive (fire and theft)
- Collision
Our licensed auto insurance brokers at Cornerstone Insurance would be happy to explain these insurance coverage levels to you in detail. Reach out to learn more!
Know How Infractions Affect Your Driving Record
Now that you have your driver’s license and are ready to hit the highway, it’s important to keep your need for speed at bay and follow the rules of the road for your own safety and the safety of those around you. In addition to road safety, though, there are financial implications at stake if you get caught speeding or find yourself at fault in a fender bender.
Not only will traffic tickets cost you a hefty fine but depending on the infraction, your insurance premium could also go up, which will cost you even more money in the long run. A good rule of thumb is to be aware of your surroundings while driving and follow the rules of the road to ensure your driving record remains unscathed!
Leave Room in Your Budget for Maintenance
Owning a vehicle is an ongoing investment, meaning that you are responsible for keeping your car road-safe and ready for anything. It may seem expensive to take your car into the body shop for regular maintenance, but the more diligent you are in keeping everything running smoothly, the less likely you are to run into car troubles on the road.
Plus, if you don’t have your vehicle assessed by mechanics for a prolonged period of time, you may end up paying more than double the cost of a routine auto tune-up as parts start to lose their integrity.
Invest in Good Winter Tires
Along the same lines as regular vehicle maintenance, another staple for your car, especially in Alberta, is a good-quality set of winter tires to get you through the slick, snow-covered road conditions. You will likely need to put winter tires on your vehicle from as early as October to as late as May until we say goodbye to black ice for the warmer months.
Know What to Do in Case of a Car Accident
In the event that you get into a car accident, whether it be a minor fender bender or a serious crash, your safety is your top priority. That being said, there are also some important steps to try and follow immediately after the collision:
- Track down witness information
- Take photos of any damage to the vehicle(s), licence plates, accident location and the at-fault driver if it wasn’t you.
- Obtain insurance information from any other drivers involved.
- File an accident report to the police.
- Call us to submit a car accident claim and we will take care of the rest.
Get an Emergency Kit
You should always keep an emergency kit in your car that includes booster cables, a blanket, warm clothes, winter boots, a flashlight, non-perishable snacks, water, and reflective lights or pylons. You never know when you’re going to end up stranded on the side of the road.
Learn the Roadside Basics
It’s important to learn basic skills like how to boost your vehicle and how to change a tire. Be sure to always have booster cables on-hand and know how to use them so you can save your vehicle or help someone else! It’s also handy to know how to put your spare tire on the car if you end up with a flat tire.
Keep Your Vehicle Clean
Think of your first car as your home away from home; you will be spending a lot of time in the driver’s seat, so we recommend getting in the habit of keeping your vehicle clean, inside and out, to maintain a healthy driving environment. Consider keeping a kit in your car that includes a garbage can, surface wipes, glass cleaner, and a portable vacuum.
Ask Your Broker about Good Driving Incentives
Many insurance companies have started offering incentives for good drivers! The longer you keep your driving record clear of infractions, the more you could save on your monthly auto insurance payment! Ask your licensed insurance broker at Cornerstone Insurance about your money-saving options today.
Providers of High-Risk Insurance in Edmonton
Ready to hit the road with your new driver’s licence? Get in touch with Cornerstone Insurance to get your car insurance quote. We’ll compare quotes from our trusted insurance providers to find you competitive rates for first-time and high-risk drivers. Trust Cornerstone Insurance with all of your first-time driving needs, and get in touch if you have any questions about being a new driver in Alberta!
