You may also be facing the prospect of adding another car to your garage. Choosing the right car for your teen may not make her a better driver, but may be a key factor in keeping her safe. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, which crash-tests dozens of vehicles each year, advises parents to choose a midsize vehicle with lots of safety features such as air bags and antilock brakes.

* A good place to start is with “The Consumer Guide Used Car Rating Guide.” This useful publication talks about the pros and cons of buying a used vehicle, which is especially useful if you haven’t shopped for a used car before.

* Check out the consumer information on car safety available from the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Insurance Information Institute, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. This background can help you zero in on cars that can better protect your teen in case she’s ever involved in an accident.

* Choose the newest model your budget can afford, since most of today’s cars are better designed for crash protection than vehicles six to 10 years old.

* Know the market before you shop. Use the Internet or your local library to research prices on the make and model car you’re interested in. Armed with this information, you’ll be in a better position to negotiate a good deal.

Once you find a car you’re interested in, don’t take the owner’s or the dealer’s assurances as the last word on whether the car is in good shape. Check the horn, lights, heat, air-conditioning, brakes, seat belts and steering.

Unless you really know cars, have a mechanic you trust go over the car and alert you to any potential problems. Although this checkup costs money up front, if there is something wrong with the car that isn’t readily apparent, it’s money well spent that could save you a fortune down the road.

Finally, check out insurance costs for the car you are considering before you buy it. Depending on the make, model and year of the car, this cost can vary substantially, and might influence your final decision.

Farmers knows that educating young drivers is important. The company’s Y.E.S. (You’re Essential to Safety) Program aims to improve a young person’s driving. In many states, young drivers who complete the program may qualify for a discount on their auto insurance.

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