What is a Defensive Driving Course?

If you've been involved in a car accident, you may have learned about a defensive driving course. These courses are designed to provide individuals with improved overall skill on the road. And, your auto insurance provider may even offer you a discount if you take the course. What is it and why should this be something you consider doing?

What is a Defensive Driving Course?

The first National Safety Council defensive driving safety course was developed more than 50 years ago and it’s one of the most respected of these programs. In short, the goal of these programs is to teach drivers specific skills you didn't learn while you were learning to drive that could help you to avoid accidents on the road. The National Safety Council reports that vehicle collisions are the leading cost of death and injury in the workplace, and just one accident can amount to some $1.4 million in losses. It's worth taking this course, from the auto insurance provider's standpoint, because it improves your skill and reduces risks.

What Will You Learn in a Defensive Driving Course?

While each course is different, most will provide you with outstanding information that is immediately applicable to everyday driving conditions. For example, you'll learn how to avoid accidents. These programs can teach you how to look for and avoid risks associated with other drivers, such as distracted drivers and drunk drivers. The programs also teach skills related to driving in various conditions and how to avoid mistakes that can lead to accidents.

There are both individual and commercial defensive driving courses available. Both are valuable investments because they give you real-world instruction. Many use remote, on-site or customized training programs and they allow you to complete them when it works for your schedule.

What's most important is that these courses can help you to avoid accidents. And, while your auto insurance rates may fall, what's more valuable is the fact that you will be safe on the road and at a lower risk of being involved in a significant accident. Be sure to talk to your agent to find out if discounts are available and how to locate an approved course to register for in your area.