IAG-subsidiary AMI says New Zealand drivers under the age of 25 are 26% more likely to have an accident when compared to other drivers.

The insurer says it has highlighted "stark statistics" from its claims data to promote driver safety and the importance of insurance.

The data shows Northland as the riskiest region for young drivers, with the average claim rate for under 25-year-old drivers at 25%, 6% higher than the national average.

The East Coast region came second at 22%, with Hawkes Bay, Waikato, and Bay of Plenty all recording 21%. Average claim rates in Auckland and Wellington were 18% and 17%, respectively, with Nelson recording the lowest rate at 15%.

Fleet Risk Manager at AMI and NZI insurance and former NZPD officer Hamish Piercy says the data shows that "we can't be complacent when it comes to driver safety".

"It's an unavoidable fact that to gain experience, you have to drive, so as a society we need to look at how we can enable that in a safe way," Mr Piercy said.

AMI says it has partnered with driving trainer Fleetcoach to offer eligible young motorists an online driving education course. Customers who complete the course can qualify to have $NZ250 ($221.81) taken off their vehicle policy excess.

"We're hoping this will encourage more young people to take up insurance, and to know that we're on their side in case things go wrong," AMI Claims EGM Wayne Tippet said.

Mr Piercy says the course focuses on three key areas – core skills, distractions and inattention, and speed – providing younger drivers a "great opportunity" to hone their skills.

"It's affordable and accessible, and you get consistent messaging during the course," he said.

"I think we need to acknowledge that sometimes older drivers can pass on bad habits, so it's good to get the consistent teaching that an online course offers."

He says important lessons for new drivers include getting experience in all types of environments, putting phones away, with driver distraction one of the leading causes of accidents, and reminding about driver responsibility.

"Don't let passengers determine how you drive," he said. "It's your responsibility as the driver to ensure the safety of yourself, any passengers, and others on the road."

Mr Piercy implored parents to teach young motorists to drive early on without being overbearing.

"It can be tempting to take the wheel back from a young driver if the conditions are hazardous, but it's far better that they navigate the challenge next to an experienced supervisor rather than on their own, later down the track," he said.

"Driving when it's wet, in high winds, on a windy road, on a busy motorway, in urban areas and in rural areas – you need to experience all of these conditions in order to become a confident and safe driver."