A recent study by the Independent Insurance Agents of America shows that over 70 percent of college students keep a car on campus. With having the freedom to go anywhere they please comes the responsibility of the upkeep and maintenance.

            Before students set off for college, parents should take the time to teach them some handy basic car maintenance skills. Checking the oil, tire pressure and tire wear, along with other crucial skills, can help college students spot potential issues before they turn into a serious and expensive problem. It's also a good idea for students to know where the nearest auto repair shop is located, especially for car problems that require professional servicing beyond basic car maintenance.

            Making a break from the parents doesn't mean making a break from their auto insurance policy. By staying on their parents' policy, college students can save hundreds of dollars annually on insurance premiums. For some students, it's cheaper to get their own auto insurance policy. Depending on the college students' driving situation and type of car insurance will depend on what type of car insurance you may need.  Whether your student drives your car or someone else's, contact your car insurance company for a quick policy update. It's all a matter of weighing the options and choosing what's best.