GEICO Offers Winter Safe Driving Tips for Teen Drivers

WASHINGTON--December 27, 2011: With more cars on the highways and extreme weather conditions in some parts of the country, it's important for teens to stay focused on the roads during this holiday season. GEICO is encouraging teens to use caution to avoid accidents during this time of the year.

Here are some of those important safety tips for all drivers:

• Take the time to winterize your car. Make sure the car battery, fluid levels, lights, windshield wipers, tires and brakes have all been checked before driving the car.
• Don't let your gas tank get close to empty. You don't want to run out if you get stuck in traffic -- or a snow bank.
• No texting and driving. You should only use your cell phone in case of an emergency -- and then you should pull safely over to the side of the road to use it.
• Limit your passengers. The risk of a fatal crash increases with every additional passenger.
• Wear your seat belt. Make sure everyone in the car is buckled up.
• Get some rest. Pull over immediately to rest if you're feeling tired.
• No drinking and drug use. Underage drinking and drug use are illegal -- and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can cost you your license -- or even your life.

Visit the GEICO Blog for more information on winter driving tips. Teens can also learn more about safe driving on GEICO's teen driving site: Geico Teen Driving.

GEICO (Government Employees Insurance Company) is a member of the Berkshire Hathaway family of companies and is the third-largest private passenger auto insurer in the United States. The company is celebrating its 75^th anniversary this year. GEICO handles auto insurance coverage for 10 million private passenger auto policies and insures more than 17 million vehicles.

In addition to auto insurance, GEICO offers customers insurance products for their motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), travel trailers and motorhomes (RVs). Coverage for life, boats, homes and apartments is available through the GEICO Insurance Agency. Commercial auto insurance and personal umbrella protection are also available.

As a member of the Berkshire Hathaway group of companies, GEICO is rated A++ for financial strength by A.M. Best Company and ranks at the top of several national customer satisfaction surveys. For more information, go to Geico.