A few weeks ago I nearly broadsided another vehicle through no fault of my own. One block before a major intersection there was a car stopped and waiting to enter onto the main 3 lane road. I was traveling in the right lane and intended to make a right turn at said intersection. I had not put on my signal yet because I did not want to confuse the waiting driver. I was the only vehicle within 1/4 mile of this vehicle. Closer and closer I got, traveling the 45mph speed limit, now 200yds. then 100yds. at 50yds. they decided it was time to go. It was as if I anticipated this move because it didn't even phase me, I actually expected it. We hear the comment "NO HARM, NO FOUL" in many instances although not usually when in our cars.
There was no gesturing, no audible "effing this" or "effing that", not even a WTF. The only gesture which was noticeable was that of the driver's look of fear and momentary frozen expression embedded there. As the phone slid from ear to cheek then dropped from sight it was apparent what had just happened. Lives change in an instant especially when not paying attention.
Moving violations can cause your car insurance rates to climb dramatically depending on the infraction. Couple that with fines and any damages it can be expensive. You may also be required to participate in defensive driving classes if you're a habitual offender. On the bright side, if you're required to do so you statistically now have a 5 year reprieve before incurring another violation.
Volunteering to attend a Safe Driving or Defensive Driving course can save money too. Drivers under 25 usually see higher discounts but those 55 and older can benefit also. Between those years there's not much available to cut the costs. Because rates can jump as much as 20% when accidents or violations appear on your driving record it's good to know that you can combat them. Many states mandate premium reductions and some insurers exceed those guidelines due to the savings it allows them. This could expunge points off your license and provide a substantial savings. Lowering your points equals lowering your rates in almost all cases. The benefits of taking a class can keep the savings in place for 3 to 5 years depending on the state you live in and the insurance company you're with.
These savings vary however any amount is good when you consider that the class can be of minimal cost or free. Talk to your insurance agent to find out more! You could be so surprised by the savings that your face may "momentarily freeze" from the shock. Knowing where to cut corners is what we learn in that 30 year gap I suppose. It's definitely worth a phone call.
Comments(4)