Driving is one of those things most learn as a teenager and then never really think about again. Most people don’t realize that driving classes are not just helpful for continuing your driving knowledge, they are also applicable for many practical situations as well. Let’s look at some of the benefits of defensive driving courses, and how you could find one in your area.
The classes, in one respect, serve as a refresher for basics of city and highway driving. They will cover everything from road sign definitions and state traffic laws to safety equipment and regular maintenance. You’ll learn more concretely about your stopping and reaction distances, and other information about your car that will help make you more aware as a driver.
Beyond those basics, the instructor will talk to you about more in-depth topics, that may not be as evident to every driver. You will cover things like avoiding environmental hazards and weather developments, and how to scan your environment before and as you are driving. There will also be discussion about the impact of human factors, like encountering intoxicated drivers or those engaging in road rage or distracted driving. Even if you are an alert driver, it is still important to be prepared for others who are not paying attention.
There will be training for driving in a way that lowers the risk of accidents, known as crash prevention training. But you will also go over how to proceed if you can’t avoid the crash. You will learn about the different elements of a car accident, such as speed, mass and timing. This will help you to make the most effective decisions possible in an intense crash situation. Some courses offer crash prevention through classroom or online instruction, as well as driving courses to help train you behind the wheel.
While it varies from company to company, most insurance providers will offer discounts for completing a defensive driving course. You can find a list of approved driver education classes of all kinds on the California DMV website. For example, there is also an insurance reduction offered for completing a mature driving course. This is a class offered for people over 55 years of age, addressing challenges specific to those drivers. Some insurance companies offer fairly generous benefits for taking the courses, with reductions in price that last up to three years.
If you have a ticket or fine, the courses usually serve to reduce your fee amount. Some will actually work to clear the violation from your driving record altogether. This also means that any points that were accrued on your license by the incident will be removed. As California has some of the most expensive road penalties in the nation, it’s never a bad idea to look for a class if you do have a fee or fine. There are several courses available that can be completed in one day, and many offered online. These can all be found as recommended by the court in your specific case, or through the DMV website.
blogs
Five Apps for Bicyclists
Bicycle accidents happen all the time in the United States, and practicing bicycle safety is relatively simple – it just involves a lot of mindful riding and the safest possible equipment. Another part of safe bicycle riding is making sure you have your routes planned out and, in the case of an emergency, it doesn’t […]
Five Safety Products for Motorcycle Riders
Approximately ten percent of motor vehicle deaths in the United States can be attributed to motorcycleaccidents. Safe riding and defensive driving are important to all motor vehicle operations, of course, but making sure you’re stocked up on the right equipment to make your ride as safe as possible is critical to avoiding accidents or, in […]
Stay Safe in Hybrid and Electric Vehicles
In the history of cars, hybrids and plug-in electric vehicles are still essentially brand-new. With new technology comes a new way to look at transportation. This includes an eye toward safety – anything new in automobiles is going to require a new understanding of how they work, what the dangers are, and how to maintain […]
Facts About Ridesharing Accidents
Even in cities that are considered to be “car cultures,” rideshare services are quickly becoming a solid alternative for those who don’t want to abandon their car after a night out, or don’t want to take public transportation. For some, Uber and Lyft, etc are their best bet for timely arrival to work or a […]
Five Products for Increased Pedestrian Safety
While pedestrians typically have the right of way in most places, that doesn’t automatically make everyone around you a better or safer driver. As pedestrians, we have to activelypractice safety in order to make sure that we are the ones most responsible for our personal safety. Staying aware of our surroundings is always step number […]
Five Apps Every Trucker Should Have
Driving a tractor trailer or any other large vehicle isn’t just about long hours, lots of miles and making sure you’re still driving safely after those lengthy days. It’s a lifestyle, and like any other connected lifestyle in the 21st century, there are plenty of apps to go around designed to help make a truck […]
Bicycle Safety Tips
Bicycling might be the true essence of freedom in transportation. No dependence on anyone to get around except yourself, no motor to make you drive out of control, and you can park your bike just about anywhere. Still, safety while riding a bicycle is just as important as with any other mode of transportation, especially […]
Tesla’s Brilliance in the Automobile Industry
Tesla Incorporation, founded by Elon Musk, is taking over the automobile industry with its emphasis on sustainable energy by manufacturing high-end electric vehicles. The company is known for its manufacture of high-end vehicles that are designed for speed and endurance. Below are a few ways Tesla and their brilliance with Elon Musk set the auto […]
Top Three Scenic Motorcycle Routes in California
California is among the most beautiful destinations in the country. The raw beauty of our state is part of the reasons why myriads of people move here every day. From miles of pristine beaches, breathtaking lakes, picturesque deserts, to rugged but awe-inspiring terrains like Yosemite, the geographic diversity of the Golden State is simply mesmerizing. […]
Four Surprising Myths about Motorcycle Accidents and Injuries
Motorcycles have become a pretty popular way to get around in the country. In California alone, there are over 790,000 registered motorcycles. This number is set to increase as more people choose the convenience and the fun that comes with getting around on a motorcycle. But despite these increasing numbers, there are countless myths and […]
contact form