The best defensive driving safety course typically teaches students how to avoid accidents and minimize their risks in the event of an accident. Defensive driving has grown in popularity in recent years, especially in large cities and urban centers. The primary concept behind this type of driving course is that drivers who drive in a defensive manner are able to minimize the risk posed by other drivers on the road. Many parents pay high tuition fees so that their children can complete a defensive driving safety course, which often results in lower car insurance premiums.
There are three things you usually should look for when choosing a defensive driving safety course: accreditation by the insurance company, training methods, and opportunity for practice. Classes typically are offered during evenings and weekends, so that students who are employed full-time or are attending school can participate. Typically, schools will require all students to have obtained his or her learners driving permit before registering for this course.
A vast majority of automobile insurance companies provide reduced insurance premium to policy holders when the drivers have successfully completed a defensive driving safety course. It is very important to obtain a list of acceptable schools from the insurance company before registering for a defensive driving safety course. There are no rules requiring the insurance company to provide this discount if the course is not provided by an acceptable school.
The most effective classes usually provide a combination of classroom and in-car training, along with written assignments and a small class size. Classroom coursework typically includes films and lectures on identifying risks on the road, automobile maintenance, and how to perform simple roadside repairs, such as replacing a tire. The in-car training sessions usually are a combination of demonstration and practice sessions. Techniques covered should include driving in icy or slippery conditions, dangerous driving around you, and avoiding an accident.
A vast majority of schools that offer a defensive driving safety course have a practice area with a series of obstacles designed to simulate road conditions and hazards. The ability to practice the techniques covered in class can be essential to properly mastering them. Many of these skills are counter-intuitive, and only can become second nature with repetition.
Most drivers are advised to take a refresher course every five years. The skills and techniques covered in class may become rusty over time, or new techniques may have been developed. These courses often are one day or two evenings in length and can be very helpful.