Defensive driving is a method in which a driver uses proactive skills to anticipate and avoid hazards. While some achieve this skill through years of practice, others learn it by taking a course– not just to improve their safety, but also to save on insurance costs.
Many insurance carriers offer defensive driving discounts to incentivize their customers to gain safe habits, thereby decreasing the risk of an accident. Although it can reduce your premium anywhere from 5-20%, this type of savings is often overlooked by policyholders.
However, terms and discounts can vary widely depending on your state and carrier, so it’s important to know the details before signing up for a course.
Note: These tips should not be considered official insurance guidance. Please consult an insurance professional or broker when making decisions regarding insurance.
What is a Defensive Driving Course?
A defensive driving course teaches drivers skills and habits to proactively respond to dangers on the road. It’s designed to improve safety by equipping individuals with advanced techniques for hazard perception, evasive maneuvers, and maintaining proper following distances.
Many insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who voluntarily complete an approved defensive driving course, as these drivers are statistically less likely to be involved in accidents. The underlying principle is that by encouraging safer driving habits, insurance companies reduce their risk of claims, leading to savings for both the insurer and the policyholder.
In some cases, drivers may even be required to take a defensive driving course after an accident or a traffic violation to help reduce points on their driving record. While these individuals often won’t qualify for the standard defensive driving discount, taking the course may prevent their insurance rates from skyrocketing.
Benefits Beyond the Discount
While the primary motivation for many is the financial savings, the benefits of taking a defensive driving course extend far beyond a lower insurance premium.
- Enhanced Driving Skills: You’ll learn advanced techniques for hazard perception, evasive maneuvers, parallel parking, and maintaining proper following distances.
- Increased Confidence: Feeling more prepared for unexpected road conditions or aggressive drivers can significantly boost your confidence behind the wheel.
- Fewer Accidents and Tickets: The skills learned can directly lead to a reduction in preventable accidents and moving violations, saving you from costly repairs, increased premiums, and fines.
How the Discount Works: State-by-State and Individual Variations
The availability and specifics of a defensive driving discount can vary significantly based on your state and even your individual insurance policy. To find out your eligibility and potential savings, you’ll need to reach out to your auto insurance carrier.
State Regulations
Many states mandate that insurance companies offer defensive driving discounts. However, the exact rules differ:
- Mandated vs. Optional: Some states require insurers to offer this discount, while others leave it up to the individual insurance company.
- Eligibility Requirements: States may have specific criteria for who qualifies for the discount. For instance, some states might only offer the discount to drivers over a certain age or those with a clean driving record.
- Discount Percentage: The percentage of the discount can vary, often ranging from 5% to 20% off certain coverages.
- Frequency of Renewal: You typically need to retake a defensive driving course every three3 to five5 years to maintain the discount.
Individual Insurance Company Policies
Even within states that mandate the discount, individual insurance companies might have their own specific rules. Some carriers, such as GEICO, provide this information online. But when in doubt, reach out to your agent directly.
- Approved Providers: While a state might approve many providers, your insurance company might only recognize a subset of them. Always confirm with your insurer before enrolling.
- Specific Coverages: The discount might apply only to certain parts of your premium, such as liability coverage, collision, or personal injury protection.
- Duration of Discount: Some insurers offer the discount for a fixed period, while others require periodic renewal.
- Combined Discounts: Insurers might offer additional savings if you combine the defensive driving discount with other eligible discounts, such as good student discounts, multi-car discounts, or safe driver programs.
Steps to Secure Your Discount
- Check with Your Insurance Provider: This is your first and most important step. Contact your insurance agent or customer service representative. Ask:
- Do they offer a defensive driving discount?
- What are the eligibility requirements?
- Which courses or providers are approved?
- What is the discount percentage and how long does it last?
- What documentation do you need to submit?
- Enroll in an Approved Course: Choose a course that fits your learning style and schedule, ensuring it’s recognized by both your state and your insurer.
- Complete the Course: Dedicate the necessary time to absorb the material and pass any required tests.
- Obtain Your Certificate: Upon successful completion, the course provider will issue you a certificate.
- Submit Documentation: Send your certificate of completion to your insurance provider. They will process the discount, and you should see the savings reflected in your next billing cycle.
Is a Defensive Driving Discount Worth It?
Taking a defensive driving course comes at the cost of both time and money. Still, most drivers will find that it’s worth the investment.
Even a modest 5% discount on your car insurance can add up to significant savings over time. For example, if your annual premium is $1,200, a 5% discount saves you $60 per year. Over three years, that’s $180, often more than enough to cover the cost of the course itself with plenty of savings left over.
Beyond the financial aspect, the investment in a defensive driving course is an investment in your safety and the safety of others on the road. The knowledge and skills you gain are invaluable, helping you become a more confident, alert, and responsible driver.
Double Down on Your Insurance Savings
Defensive driving discounts aren’t the only way to save on car insurance. Check out these resources to find more ways to cut down on your bill:
