Almost four years after the New York State Legislature authorized defensive driving courses taken over the Internet, the Department of Motor Vehicles has approved four providers’ courses. IIABNY members have reported contacts from course providers since the DMV’s May 18 announcement of the courses’ availability.
According to the DMV’s Web site, the department has approved the following course providers:
- National Point and Insurance Reduction Course, Inc.
- I DRIVE SAFELY
- USA Training Company, Inc.
- American Safety Council, Inc.
The New York Insurance Department issued a circular on June 5, informing insurers of the change and instructing them to include the names of the providers in their policyholder notices. New York Insurance Law requires insurers to give premium discounts to insureds who take approved accident prevention courses.
The DMV’s action follows the Legislature’s 2005 enactment of Article 12-C of the Vehicle and Traffic Law, establishing an accident prevention course internet technology pilot program. The law requires the DMV to report to the governor and Legislature on the program’s results and make recommendations as to its future.
What do you folks think about this? Is it a good idea to let people earn insurance discounts and license point reductions in front of their computers? Is it a sensible nod toward 21st century technology or an easy way for people to lower their premiums without actually learning anything? Sound off in the comments.
Great Information. That sounds great. Really helpful thanks for the Article, Great job, hope we can expect more articles like this. All the Best
Posted by: New York Defensive Driving | February 19, 2010 at 01:21 AM
I had no idea that you could take a defensive driving texas course online! http://www.247texasdriversafety.com/ I just signed up for a course, but maybe I'll cancel and do it online. Thanks for the information, I'm definitely going to look more into it!
Posted by: Lyla Burns | April 23, 2012 at 07:57 AM