Okay besties, back-to-school szn is here, and that means teen drivers are hitting the streets. Whether you’re a high schooler pulling up with your learner’s permit or flexing a new ride, staying safe is a total non-negotiable. Let’s break down the ultimate dad joke approved teen driving safety checklist — with a glow-up from your auto insurance advisors at Cincinnatus Insurance.
✅ 1. Check Your Ride — No Cap, Safety First
First things first, give your car a full check before rolling out. This means inspecting brakes, tire pressure, headlights, taillights, and oil levels. You don’t want your whip breaking down on the way to Dunkin’. Not cute.
Pro tip: Some auto insurance policies cover roadside assistance, so peep your policy before something goes south.
✅ 2. Buckle Up, It’s Giving Responsible
Seat belts are not just for boomers. Real talk: they save lives every single day. Don’t even start the engine until everyone’s buckled — driver and all your passengers.
In fact, many insurance companies offer discounts for safe drivers who always wear seat belts. Win-win.
✅ 3. Phone = Locked and Loaded (Away) 📵
Scrolling through TikTok while driving? Hard pass. That’s a whole walking red flag right there. Use “Do Not Disturb While Driving” or connect your phone to your car’s hands-free system.
BTW, distracted driving can totally void insurance claims if you’re in an accident. So yeah, don’t risk it.
âś… 4. Know the Vibes: Speed Limits Are the Real MVP
You may feel like a main character in a coming-of-age Netflix drama, but speeding isn’t iconic. Follow posted speed limits like your fave influencer follows skincare routines — religiously.
Bonus: driving within speed limits helps keep your insurance premium from going full cringe. Lower risk = lower cost.
✅ 5. Gas? Full. Mood? Chill. 🚦
Running on E isn’t the vibe. Keep your gas tank at least a quarter full at all times. You don’t want to end up stranded near a haunted Taco Bell.
Plus, regular fueling and maintenance shows you’re a certified safe driver — hello, potential insurance discount.
âś… 6. Stay in Your Lane (Literally)
Lane changing like it’s Mario Kart? Immediate ick. Use your blinkers. Check blind spots. Don’t tailgate. You’re not auditioning for Fast & Furious: Junior Year.
Insurance companies track accidents and traffic violations, so keeping it chill helps you stay in their good graces and saves you money.
✅ 7. Don’t Drive Under the Influence, Period. 🚫
Let’s not play. Driving under the influence — even a sip or a puff — is next-level reckless. It’s giving “I just tanked my whole future.”
Also? DUI = insurance rates that are so high you’ll cry. Just don’t go there. After all, insurance companies may find you ineligible for a policy.
âś… 8. Flex Your Insurance Knowledge
Know what your auto insurance covers. Liability, collision, comprehensive? Understand it all like it’s AP History. You’re probably on your fam’s plan, so ask them what’s covered for you specifically.
Pro move: some companies offer student driver discounts or good grades incentives. Maintain a B average and you could save some $$$.
âś… 9. Emergency Kit = Main Character Energy
A key part of your teen driving safety checklist. You never know what might go down, so always keep an emergency kit in your trunk. Jumper cables, flashlight, blanket, snacks, water — it’s giving survivalist chic.
Having the right gear shows you’re not just book smart, but also road smart — and you won’t regret it if you hit a roadblock.
✅ 10. Drive Like Your Insurance Agent’s Watching
Because… they basically are. Some apps let insurance companies monitor your driving habits. Called telematics, it tracks your speed, braking, and phone usage.
Drive like an icon and score lower premiums. Drive like chaos and, well, good luck with that renewal.
🎒 TL;DR: Safety First, Slay Second
Back-to-school vibes are fire, but being a safe driver is straight-up legendary. Respect the roads, respect your ride, and keep your auto insurance on point.
So buckle up, be alert, drive smart — and slay every drive like the responsible baddie you are.
Written by your Dad Desperately Trying to Be Cool Who Also Takes Teen Driving Safety Seriously