You're right about dash cams—definitely more helpful for claims than discounts. From what I've seen, insurers in Delaware do offer some modest discounts for safety tech like automatic braking or lane assist, but don't expect huge savings... maybe around 5-8% tops. Bundling life insurance can sometimes help, but honestly, it's usually more convenience than big savings. Still worth asking your agent though—every company has its quirks, and you might luck out with a better deal.
Good points about the dash cams and bundling. I'm shopping around for my first policy right now, and honestly, even 5% off sounds decent if it doesn't cost much upfront. But I'm curious—does anyone know if insurers here in Delaware give discounts for taking defensive driving courses? I've heard mixed things... some friends say it's worth the hassle, others think it's barely noticeable. If it's just a tiny discount, I'd rather save my time and money. Would appreciate hearing from someone who's actually done it recently.
"I've heard mixed things... some friends say it's worth the hassle, others think it's barely noticeable."
I took a defensive driving course here in Delaware about six months ago, and honestly, the discount wasn't huge—around 5-10% depending on the insurer. For me, being budget-conscious, every little bit helps, especially as a new driver. But I get your point; if the course costs more than the discount saves, it might not be worth it. Has anyone found online courses cheaper or easier than in-person ones? I'd be interested to know.
Did an online defensive driving course last year—here's my take:
- Cost about $25, cheaper than the local classes I'd seen (around $50-60).
- Finished it in one lazy afternoon, definitely easier than showing up in person.
- Discount was smallish, maybe saved me $60 total this year, but hey, that's still something.
- Biggest benefit: convenience. No scheduling hassles, just clicked through at my own pace.
Overall...worth it for me, but YMMV depending on your patience with clicking through slides.
Haha, clicking through slides...the universal test of patience. Honestly though, good on you for sticking it out. I've had plenty of clients who start those online courses with great intentions, then halfway through they're texting me like "Is this really worth it?" 😂
But seriously, even if the discount isn't massive, convenience is king. I mean, who wants to spend their Saturday morning in a stuffy classroom listening to someone drone on about safe following distances? (No offense to any defensive driving instructors lurking here!) I had one guy tell me he did his course while binge-watching Netflix in another tab—multitasking at its finest.
And hey, $60 saved is still $60. That's a tank of gas or a nice dinner out. Plus, some insurers let you stack discounts, so if you combine that defensive driving discount with other things like paperless billing or bundling home and auto, it can add up quicker than you'd think.
One thing I'd add though—make sure you check how long your discount lasts. Some insurers give you three years, others only one or two. If it's shorter, you might have to click through those slides again sooner than you'd like...but hey, at least you'll be a pro by then.
Anyway, props for sharing your experience. It's always helpful to hear real-world takes instead of just marketing fluff.
