If you have been convicted of reckless driving, insurance premiums are likely to increase dramatically for several years. Some policyholders have reported increases of up to 40%, while still others have had their insurance coverage cancelled by their carrier.
In an effort to reduce speed, decrease recklessness and increase safety many states have approved Driver Safety, Driver Education or Defensive Driving courses for their citizens. The courses can be delivered on-line, in a classroom setting and also via hands-on instruction in a vehicle with an instructor.
- Every state has their own laws regarding reckless driving and whether or not there are any driver remediation programs available
- Depending on where you live, you may be able to get your insurance rate lowered by completing a driver safety or defensive driving course.
State Examples
In New Jersey, you can have up to two points removed from your license upon successful completion of a state approved defensive driving course.
New York State has a comprehensive "Point and Insurance Reduction Program" in place whereby drivers who complete what they refer to as an approved accident prevention course:
- Can reduce the number of points on their license by as much as 4 points
- Can potentially save up to 10% on their insurance premiums
Alabama offers two different state approved courses to reckless drivers. The first is a 4 hour course; in order to qualify to take it you can have had no previous moving violations for the past five years.
The second course is an 8 hour defensive driving course. The 4 hour course is a prerequisite and you can have had no more than one moving violation since you took the 4 hour course or you had to have been charged with reckless driving or passing a school bus.
- If you enroll and successfully complete the appropriate course before pleading guilty, you may be able to have your charge dismissed.
Insurance Company
Depending on your insurance carrier, you may receive a discount on your increased premium if the defensive driving course you took is approved by your state. It is recommended that you check with your state's department of motor vehicles to see if they have any approved courses and then contact your local insurance agent to find out if your insurance company offers any discounts.
At least one major carrier has a policy of not offering a discount on your insurance if the driver training/remediation course you have taken was ordered by a court.
Get Legal Help
Reckless driving is a serious offense, which can have an extremely negative impact on your driving record and on your pocketbook for years to come. As soon as possible you should contact a local attorney who specializes in traffic law. He or she will be able to listen to your story, evaluate the facts in your case and provide advice about the best options currently available to you under state law.
