You might know the term “defensive driving” as a way to get a reduction on a speeding ticket, but it’s much more than that! Defensive driving is a term used for the driving techniques that a driver should have when behind the wheel. By following the actions below you will help reduce collisions, which will save more lives, time, and money!

Driving defensively includes:

• Looking ahead and expecting the unexpected.
• Controlling your speed.
• Maintaining a safe following distance.
• Preparedness for the reactions of other drivers.
• Driving safely for weather and/or road conditions.
• Being alert and distraction free.
• Watching and respecting other drivers.

I can admit I am not always the picture-perfect defensive driver. Sometimes I’m in a rush, or I just want to get home, sometimes other drivers make me want to pull my hair out, and sometimes we all get distracted. If you think that you might be like me sometimes it might be a good idea for you to check out the defensive driving course. Interested in what you might learn…

• Statistics related to traffic collisions
• How to overcome psychological roadblocks like anxiety, road rage, or drowsiness.
• The effects of alcohol and drugs on judgment and motor skills
• The importance of car safety equipment, such as seat belts, airbags, child safety seats, and headrests.
• The dynamics of a collision, including how factors like speed, point of impact, and vehicle size can impact the severity of a crash.
• Traffic laws in your county and state.

I know, you’re probably thinking why the heck would I want to pay for a course that I don’t want to sit through…Wasn’t that call the “five hours” and my “permit test’”? Yeah I get it safety isn’t always the most interesting, but it’s important! And there are some benefits to taking the course.

Benefits for taking the course:

• Improving your driving skills
• If you’ve received a traffic ticket, you can often score a reduction of points on your driver’s license when you successfully complete a safety class
• Driving school could help minimize an increase in your auto insurance premium
• Since insurance rates begin to creep up when drivers reach a certain age (usually around 50 or 55), older drivers who successfully complete a driving course may see their rates go down

So, before you write off taking the course you might some added benefit from taking the course! Oh, and you’ll be a better, safer, and smarter driver! Driving safe is important and keeping you safe is even more important. So check out the test or do some research yourself and become a better driver!