Are you looking to reduce your insurance premiums and improve your driving skills? If so, you may want to consider taking an accident prevention course. In New York State, completing an approved accident prevention course can not only help you become a safer driver, but it can also earn you a discount on your auto insurance. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of taking an accident prevention course and how it can help you save money on your insurance premiums.
What is an Accident Prevention Course?
An accident prevention course, also known as a defensive driving course, is a class designed to teach drivers how to anticipate and avoid potential hazards on the road. Defensive driving techniques, traffic laws, and safe driving practices are covered in the course. These courses cover topics such as defensive driving techniques, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. They are typically offered in a classroom setting or online and can range from 6 to 8 hours in length.
Benefits of Taking an Accident Prevention Course
There are several benefits to taking an accident prevention course, including:
- Improved driving skills: By learning defensive driving techniques, you can become a safer and more confident driver.
- Reduced risk of accidents: By learning how to anticipate and avoid potential hazards, you can reduce your risk of being involved in an accident.
- Lower insurance premiums: Completing an accident prevention course can earn you a discount on your car insurance
- Ticket dismissal: In some cases, completing an accident prevention course can help you dismiss a traffic ticket or reduce the number of points on your driving record.
How to Qualify for an Insurance Discount
To qualify for an insurance discount, you must complete an approved accident prevention course. In New York State, the course must be approved by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and must meet certain requirements, such as:
- Being at least 6 hours in length
- Covering topics such as traffic laws, defensive driving techniques, and alcohol and drug awareness
- Being taught by a certified instructor
You can find a list of approved accident prevention courses on the DMV website.
How Much Can You Save?
The amount you can save on your insurance premiums by completing an accident prevention course varies by insurance company. However, in New York State, the DMV requires insurance companies to offer a 10% discount for 3 years to drivers who complete an approved course. This discount applies to liability, collision, and no-fault insurance premiums.
How to Take an Accident Prevention Course
There are two ways to take an accident prevention course in New York State: in a classroom or online.
Classroom Courses
Classroom courses are typically offered by driving schools or community organizations. These courses are taught by certified instructors and allow for in-person interaction and discussion with other participants. They can range from 6 to 8 hours in length and may be completed in one day or over the course of multiple days.
Online Courses
Online courses offer the convenience of completing the course from the comfort of your own home. These courses are self-paced and can be completed on your own schedule. They also allow you to pause and resume the course as needed. However, it’s important to note that not all insurance companies accept online courses for the insurance discount, so be sure to check with your insurance provider before enrolling in an online course.
How to Get Your Insurance Discount
Once you have completed an approved accident prevention course, you will receive a certificate of completion. You can then submit this certificate to your insurance company to receive your insurance discount. Some insurance companies may require you to submit the certificate within a certain time frame, so be sure to check with your provider for their specific requirements.
Other Ways to Save on Insurance
Completing an accident prevention course is not the only way to save on your insurance premiums. Here are a few other ways you can lower your insurance costs:
- Maintain a clean driving record: By avoiding accidents and traffic violations, you can keep your insurance premiums low.
- Bundle your policies: Many insurance companies offer discounts for bundling multiple policies, such as auto and home insurance.
- Increase your deductible: By increasing your deductible, you can lower your monthly premiums. Just be sure you can afford to pay the higher deductible in the event of an accident.
- Drive a safe car: Cars with safety features such as airbags and anti-lock brakes can earn you discounts on your insurance premiums.
Conclusion
Completing an accident prevention course can not only help you become a safer driver, but it can also earn you a discount on your auto insurance premiums. Whether you choose to take a classroom course or an online course, the benefits of completing an accident prevention course are clear. So why not take the first step towards becoming a safer driver and saving money on your insurance premiums? Enroll in an approved accident prevention course today!
If you have any questions regarding the defensive driving course/discount, auto, home and business insurance options, please contact us, we’re always glad to help. The NY Insurance Hub serves Albany, Schenectady, Troy, Latham, Cohoes, Watervliet, Clifton Park, Saratoga Springs, surrounding Capital Region areas and all of New York State from NYC to Buffalo.