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Does a defensive driving course lower insurance costs?
I received a ticket for speeding, but it was my first offense. The officer who ticketed me said that I could probably take a defensive driving course to have the ticket dismissed or points reduced because it was my first violation. But will a defensive driving course help lower my insurance costs?
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
A
speeding ticket
can increase your insurance rates, but the friendly officer is correct. A defensive driving course can lower insurance costs, or at least in the idea that your car insurance won’t increase. However, if your ticket is dismissed and you take a defensive driving class approved by your insurance company, completion of the course may lower your insurance costs by up to 20%.Most states have a defensive driving program for first-time offenders. This allows first-time offenders to learn the error of their ways. In the eyes of the state, this can prevent poor driving practices in the future. While the result will vary by state, you might be eligible for ticket dismissal or a reduction in points on your license.
Defensive driving courses are usually available online and take approximately four to eight hours to complete. But because you can get an insurance discount of up to 20% over a three-year period, taking the class is a no-brainer.
If you take a defensive driving class, the next intelligent step is to use the
Jerry
app to shop around for cheaper car insurance rates.Jerry is a licensed insurance broker that will collect quotes from over 50 top-rated insurers in minutes. After you find a great rate, Jerry can help you buy new insurance and cancel your old policy. Users save an average of $887 per year.
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- Gregory R.
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