A necessity or luxury?
In some families and communities, cars are a necessity for a sane senior year experience. It simply becomes easier on the whole family if the senior has access to his or her own vehicle.

Necessity or luxury – no matter the circumstances, buying a car for a senior or letting a senior by their own car is a major family decision.

More costs than the price of the car
If your family decides that your senior needs a car, your senior will need insurance. Most insurance companies offer a “good student” discount that may require a transcript from your high school. Seniors may be required to send grades in periodically. Some companies require additional driver’s education courses to qualify for insurance. Plan ahead. Know your state laws before purchasing a car. It’s the best way to avoid unforeseen costs.

Family issues to discuss and negotiate
Regardless of whether your senior owns their own car or parents and kids share the family car, be sure to discuss what to do in case of accidents (they will happen!). Go over procedures and phone numbers to call (parents, towing service, insurance company). Parents, let your senior know that they shouldn’t be afraid to call you – their safety is most important.

Periodically discuss the dangers of drinking and driving. Parents, if you have zero-tolerance for drinking and driving, make sure your senior knows they will have no car privileges if they violate that rule.

If you’re family is considering buying a car for your senior. Sit down and discuss the following items – they’ll help you get clear on the best decision for situation.

• Will your student buy a car?
• Will they pay for the car with their own money?
• Will they pay for the insurance?
• What kind of insurance do they need?
• What does insurance deductible mean and who will pay for it?
• Will they pay for gas and maintenance?
• Will they pay for repairs in case of accidents?
• What will the car be used for? Going to and from work, school, etc.?
• Parents and seniors should discuss and establish curfews.
• How many people can ride in the car? There must be a seatbelt for all passengers and they must use them! Statistics show that the more kids that are in the car, the more likely they are to get into an accident. Some states restrict the number of passengers. Be sure the family talks in detail about this issue.
• Who will pay for tickets and parking permits at school?
• Does your family have more than one driving-aged child? Instead of purchasing a car for just your senior, perhaps your family could purchase an additional vehicle for all the kids to use.

If your family will be sharing the family car(s), here are a few additional issues:

• Establish a schedule that works for the whole family – parents and students.
• Who will clean the car?
• Make a rule about returning the car with gas in the tank.
• Car privileges will be lost if …grades not made, curfew broken, car is dirty inside, your student get a speeding ticket, etc.