Missouri Department of Insurance Highlights Financial Impact of Distracted Driving

Targeted News Service

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo., Aug. 11 -- The Missouri Department of Insurance issued the following news release:

The Missouri Department of Insurance stresses the financial consequences of an accident in the latest MO Eyes on the Road campaign PSA (http://moeyesontheroad.com/), featuring a teen whose insurance rates significantly increased. According to one of the state's largest insurance companies, rates for a teen involved in an at-fault auto accident can increase an average of 72 percent for a full-coverage policy and double for liability-only coverage.

According to the insurer, a teen with no chargeable accidents and no demerit points can expect to pay semi-annual rates of about $837 for full coverage and $517 for liability only. However, if that same teen gets distracted on the road and causes an accident, those rates can shoot up to $1,394 and $913, respectively, for three years.

"Not only can distracted driving cost lives, it also can cost you thousands of dollars in higher insurance premiums," said John M. Huff, director of the department. "This is money that could have been spent on college, a vacation, or a down payment on a home. Even if no one was hurt, that accident can have substantial financial consequences."

The department urges everyone to keep their eyes on the road. Parents and teens can fill out a teen driver contract at MOEyesontheRoad.com to support and commit to no more distracted driving.

Take the pledge, get information and join the movement at MOEyesontheRoad.com.