The 100 Deadliest Days: Protecting Montana’s Teen Drivers This Summer
From Memorial Day to Labor Day, Montana’s roads get riskier—especially for teen drivers. Nationally, the time between May and August is known as the “100 Deadliest Days” due to the spike in serious accidents involving young drivers.
If your teen just got their license in Great Falls, now’s the time to understand how to protect your family—on the road and on your policy.
1. Why Are the 100 Deadliest Days So Dangerous?
According to AAA, more than 7,000 people died in teen-related crashes during the summer months over a 10-year span. Key risk factors include:
- More free time and late-night driving
- More passengers and distractions
- Less experience navigating Montana’s unique road conditions
2. Does Your Auto Policy Reflect the Risk?
Adding a teen driver to your auto insurance in Great Falls will likely increase your premium—but skipping important coverages to save money can backfire.
Confirm your policy includes:
- Higher liability limits: Teen drivers are statistically more likely to cause accidents. Minimum limits may not cover serious claims.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage: Montana has a higher-than-average rate of uninsured drivers.
- Medical Payments or PIP: Helps cover injuries regardless of fault.
- Roadside Assistance and Rental Car Reimbursement: Especially useful for new drivers.
3. Consider Usage-Based or Telematics Programs
Many Montana insurers now offer telematics programs that track real driving behavior—like speed, braking, and time of day. Good driving habits = discounts.
Benefits for parents:
- Real-time feedback on your teen’s driving.
- Possible savings of 10–30%.
- Incentivizes safer habits.
But beware: not all programs reduce costs—if risky behavior is detected, rates could increase.
4. Have a Teen Driving Agreement
Sit down with your teen and agree on rules such as:
- No phone use while driving.
- No passengers without permission.
- No driving after 10 PM.
- Always wear a seatbelt.
Put it in writing. Many insurance agents offer free templates.
5. Other Smart Moves:
- Good Student Discounts: If your teen has a 3.0 GPA or higher, you could save.
- Driver’s Ed Course: Some insurers offer discounts if completed.
- Part-Time Driver?: Let your agent know if your teen isn’t driving daily—there may be rate reductions.
You can’t ride shotgun with your teen forever—but you can set them up for safety and success. Let’s make sure your auto policy reflects today’s risks and tomorrow’s confidence.
Call your local FUMICO agent to review your teen driver insurance today.