Definitely agree with the confidence part—it's underrated how big of a factor that is. A couple thoughts:
- Defensive driving courses might not instantly fix insurance costs, but they're gold for rebuilding comfort behind the wheel.
- Also, don't underestimate routine practice drives in low-pressure situations (quiet roads, off-hours). Helped my cousin a ton after her accident.
- Bottom line, costs suck, but driving anxiety is the real long-term challenge...you're smart to focus on that first.
Good points, but do defensive driving courses actually help lower premiums at all after something serious like a DUI? I've heard mixed things...wondering if it's worth the time or just good for anxiety.
Yeah, defensive driving courses can help, but honestly, after something as serious as a DUI, the impact might be limited. Most insurers see DUIs as high-risk events, so premiums inevitably spike pretty significantly—especially here in Idaho. That said, some companies do offer modest discounts if you complete an approved defensive driving class. It won't erase the rate hike entirely, but it could soften the blow a little.
Beyond the insurance angle, though, I've seen clients benefit mentally from these courses. It can ease anxiety and help rebuild confidence behind the wheel. One of my customers told me it was worth it just for peace of mind alone. So even if the premium savings aren't huge, the personal benefits might make it worthwhile...
"Beyond the insurance angle, though, I've seen clients benefit mentally from these courses."
That's a really good point. I commute daily and honestly, confidence behind the wheel is half the battle—especially after something stressful like a DUI. Even if the insurance discount is minimal, regaining that sense of control and reducing anxiety can make a huge difference. A friend of mine went through something similar, and he said the defensive driving course helped him feel less overwhelmed getting back on the road... so definitely worth considering.
Totally agree, the mental boost is underrated. Plus, from a practical standpoint, defensive driving courses often cover little-known tips for fuel efficiency and vehicle maintenance—small savings that add up over time, especially if you're road-tripping regularly like me...
