Can an advanced driving course lower my insurance?

For drivers with convictions, navigating the road back to confident driving and getting affordable insurance can seem daunting. Advanced driving courses offer a silver lining, providing an opportunity to not only enhance driving skills but also to demonstrate a commitment to safe driving. This commitment can play a really important role in altering the way insurers view your risk level, potentially leading to more favourable insurance terms.

Why consider an advanced driving course?

Advanced driving courses are designed to improve driving skills beyond the basic level required to pass the standard driving test. These courses cover a range of skills, including defensive driving, hazard awareness, and even eco-driving techniques. For convicted drivers, these courses serve a dual purpose: refining driving abilities and proving to insurers and authorities a serious commitment to safe and responsible driving.

What are the legal benefits?

From a legal perspective, completing an advanced driving course can sometimes directly influence the outcome of a court decision. For example, in certain circumstances, courts may look favourably upon drivers who have proactively taken steps to address their driving behaviour post-conviction. It demonstrates acknowledgment of past mistakes and a clear effort to avoid future infractions. Moreover, under the Road Traffic (New Drivers) Act 1995, new drivers who accumulate 6 points within two years of passing their test face licence revocation. For these individuals, an advanced driving course might not erase points, but it can serve as a strong foundation for safer driving habits moving forward, reducing the risk of reaching the point threshold.

How do advanced driving courses impact insurance cover?

The impact on insurance is where advanced driving courses can make a significant difference for convicted drivers. Insurers assess risk when determining premiums, and a conviction typically increases this risk, leading to higher premiums. However, completing an advanced driving course can signal to insurers that you're less likely to be involved in future incidents, which might lead to:

• Lowered premiums: Some insurers offer discounts to drivers who have completed recognised advanced driving courses, acknowledging their reduced risk profile.
• Broader insurance options: With a certificate from an advanced driving course, you may find that more insurers are willing to offer you cover, increasing your options and potentially leading to better rates.
• Positive long-term implications: While the initial insurance discount post-course might be modest, the long-term impact of maintaining a clean driving record post-course can be substantial. Over time, demonstrating safe driving can lead to significantly lower premiums.

Choosing the right advanced driving course

There are several advanced driving courses available in the UK, including those offered by the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA). When selecting a course, consider:

• Course content: Look for courses that address the areas you wish to improve in your driving and that are recognised by insurers.
• Recognition: Ensure the course is well-regarded and accredited, as this will carry more weight with insurers and legal authorities.
• Cost vs benefit: While there's an upfront cost to taking an advanced driving course, weigh this against the potential insurance savings and the invaluable improvement in your driving skills.

Investing in an advanced driving course is not just about meeting the requirements for a discount on your insurance. It's an investment in your safety and that of other road users. It represents a step towards reclaiming confidence on the road and reshaping your driving future.

For convicted drivers, the path to regaining trust with insurance companies and the broader driving community can be challenging. However, it's important to remember that the journey towards becoming a safer driver is always regarded positively. An advanced driving course is more than just a means to lower insurance premiums; it's a commitment to lifelong safe driving habits.

Ready to take control of your driving future and explore insurance options that acknowledge your commitment to safe driving? Click the quote button for convicted driver vehicle insurance quotes, and embark on the journey towards a safer, more confident driving experience.