All drivers assume a number of responsibilities. Because of their lack of experience, teenage drivers especially need to be aware of important facts.

1. Car insurance premiums will increase significantly when they are added to the policy; statistically, teen drivers have more accidents than adults, and those accidents are more severe.

2. Many insurance companies impose a surcharge after a specified number of accidents.

3. Discounts for good grades and safe driving records are sometimes available—check with your insurance agent for the specific details of the family policy*.

4. Tickets from moving violations are expensive and they may result in an increase in insurance premiums. Research shows people who have moving violations are more likely to have an accident than people who don't.

5. Too many tickets may result in the loss of both insurance and the driver's license. As a part of the driver's record, tickets can even have an impact on future employment.

6. Driving is a privilege, not a right, and that failure to observe the rules of safe driving can have serious financial consequences for mom and dad and the young driver.

7. Financial losses are only part of the picture. A car can destroy property and kill or maim people. These functions may not seem important to the teenager who's excited about driving.

* Not available in all states.

What to do if you're in an accident:

There are some important things to know if you are involved in an accident that can affect the ability to keep your license and insure your vehicle.

• If anyone is injured, immediately contact the appropriate authorities (i.e., Rescue Service, etc.)

• Notify the police and obtain names of the officers and their badge numbers.

• Underage drivers should call their parents.

• Obtain the names and addresses of all persons involved and all witnesses.

• If witnesses won't cooperate, write down their license numbers and car descriptions.

• Don't admit liability and do not discuss the claim with anybody, except a known State Farm agent or the police.

Information is a courtesy of State Farm Insurance