How to Get Insurance Discounts with Online Defensive Driving
At The Wiser Driver Driving School, we know that saving money on car insurance is a top priority for many drivers.
Did you know that taking a defensive driving course online for insurance discount can significantly reduce your premiums?
This blog post will guide you through the process of obtaining insurance discounts through online defensive driving courses, helping you become a safer driver while keeping more money in your pocket.
How Insurance Discounts Work for Defensive Driving
Types of Insurance Discounts
Insurance companies offer various discounts for drivers who complete defensive driving courses. The most common type is a percentage reduction on the overall premium. Some insurers provide specific discounts on liability, collision, or comprehensive coverage. Others may offer a flat rate reduction. For example, GEICO provides up to a 15% discount in Arkansas for drivers who complete an approved defensive driving course.
Qualifying for Discounts with Online Courses
Online defensive driving courses have gained popularity due to their convenience and flexibility. Most major insurance providers now recognize these online courses for discount eligibility. However, you must verify that your chosen course meets your insurer’s approval requirements. Many reputable online defensive driving courses meet the standards set by major insurance companies, which simplifies the discount qualification process.
Average Savings on Insurance Premiums
The percentage of savings varies widely depending on your location, insurance provider, and individual circumstances. On average, drivers can expect to save between 5% to 20% on their car insurance premiums after they complete a defensive driving course. In some states, the savings can exceed this range. However, it’s important to note that normally a defensive driving course will not do anything for your insurance rates (A drivers training course, however, is a different matter).
Duration of Discounts
These discounts typically last for three years after course completion. After this period expires, you may need to retake the course to maintain your discount. Always check with your insurance provider for specific details about discount duration and renewal requirements.
Factors Affecting Discount Rates
Several factors influence the discount rate you receive:
- Your age (young drivers and seniors often qualify for higher discounts)
- Your driving record
- The state where you live (some states mandate specific discount percentages)
- Your insurance company’s policies
While the exact savings depend on your individual situation, the potential for reduced premiums makes taking an online defensive driving course a smart financial decision. Moreover, you’ll acquire valuable skills to enhance your safety on the road – a clear advantage for any driver.
As you consider the financial benefits of defensive driving courses, let’s explore the additional advantages these programs offer beyond insurance savings.
Why Online Defensive Driving Courses Are Game-Changers
Learn Anytime, Anywhere
Online defensive driving courses revolutionize driver education. These digital programs transform the learning experience for drivers of all ages. The flexibility of online courses stands unmatched. You can access course materials 24/7, which allows you to fit lessons into your busy schedule without sacrificing work or family time. This accessibility means you can learn at your own pace (whether that’s completing the entire course in one weekend or spreading it out over several weeks).
Save Time and Money
Online courses typically cost less than in-person alternatives. You’ll save on travel expenses and avoid taking time off work. Many online defensive driving courses are priced competitively (often under $100). This investment quickly pays for itself through insurance discounts and improved driving skills. Defensive driving courses for all drivers on the policy might provide more discounts that can continue for up to three years, multiplying your savings over time.
Stay Current with Traffic Laws
Online courses receive regular updates to reflect the latest traffic laws and safety techniques. This ensures you learn the most current information, which is critical in today’s rapidly changing driving landscape. For example, many courses now include sections on navigating around self-driving cars and using advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) – topics that weren’t relevant just a few years ago.
Reduce Your Risk on the Road
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that human error is a factor in a staggering 94% of all crashes. When you stay informed about the latest safety practices through online defensive driving courses, you actively work to reduce your risk on the road. This knowledge not only helps you qualify for insurance discounts but also contributes to overall road safety.
Choose a Reputable Provider
When selecting an online defensive driving course, it’s important to choose a reputable provider. Look for courses that are state-approved and recognized by insurance companies. The Wiser Driver Driving School offers comprehensive programs designed for drivers of all ages, including defensive driving courses that can help reduce license points and potentially lower insurance rates.
Now that you understand the benefits of online defensive driving courses, let’s explore the steps you need to take to secure those valuable insurance discounts.
How to Secure Insurance Discounts Through Online Defensive Driving
Research Insurance Providers
Contact your current insurance provider to inquire about their defensive driving discount policies. Ask about the discount percentage, eligibility criteria, and approved online courses. If your current provider lacks competitive discounts, consider exploring other options. You may save money buying from different insurance companies, compared with a multipolicy discount.
Select an Approved Course
After identifying which courses your insurer recognizes, choose one that meets your needs. Focus on state-approved courses that provide completion certificates. The National Safety Council’s online defensive driving course (accepted by most major insurance companies) typically takes about 4 hours to finish.
Complete the Course
Select a course and commit to finishing it within the timeframe your insurance provider specifies. Online courses have surged in popularity, allowing you to progress at your own pace, but try to complete it within 30 days to ensure timely application of your discount.
Submit Your Certificate
Upon course completion, you’ll receive a certificate. Submit this to your insurance company promptly. Many insurers now offer online portals for easy certificate submission, which can speed up the discount application process.
Monitor Your Discount Application
After submitting your certificate, follow up with your insurance company to confirm they’ve received it and applied your discount. Some insurance companies offer discounts for drivers who complete accredited courses. Some providers (like State Farm) apply discounts if you have voluntarily completed a Defensive Driving Course within the last three years, provided you meet eligibility requirements.
Final Thoughts
Online defensive driving courses offer a powerful combination of benefits. Drivers can enhance their skills and save money on insurance premiums, with discounts ranging from 5% to 20%. These courses provide up-to-date content on traffic laws and safety techniques, making them an attractive option for drivers of all ages.
The skills acquired through these courses help drivers navigate today’s complex driving environment more safely. This knowledge can reduce the risk of accidents and traffic violations, creating a win-win situation for responsible drivers. Taking a defensive driving course online for insurance discount is an investment in safety and financial well-being.
The Wiser Driver Driving School offers comprehensive programs to boost driving confidence and skills. Our defensive driving courses can help reduce license points and potentially lower insurance rates. We encourage you to take action and enroll in an online defensive driving course today (your wallet and fellow road users will thank you).
