What To Expect From A DMV-Approved Driver Improvement Course
According to the National Safety Council, even a simple online training course can reduce traffic accidents by up to 70% – while also eliminating the cost of future tickets. That said, few motorists have time to take driver improvement courses unless they absolutely have to. The Department of Motor Vehicles may request or require drivers to take these courses, and they could be a preferable alternative to traffic tickets or even incarceration. For drivers who are facing certain traffic violations in Virginia, a course could be an excellent opportunity to learn more about road safety while avoiding potential consequences. How exactly does a DMV-approved driver improvement course work? Can the completion of a driver course really help prevent more serious consequences? These are questions that Driving Defense Law may be able to answer. Consider calling (757) 929-0335 to continue this conversation alongside our experienced traffic law attorneys in Virginia.
Voluntary vs. Involuntary Driver Improvement Courses
Motorists in Virginia may take driver improvement courses voluntarily, or the court may order them to take these courses. In addition, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may also require motorists to take driver improvement courses in certain situations.
Voluntary Driver Improvement Courses Explained
A driver in Virginia may elect to take a voluntary driver improvement course to achieve certain benefits. First, students who successfully complete a DMV-approved driver improvement course can receive up to five “safe driving points.” These safe driving points count against demerit points, potentially allowing drivers to “cancel out” negative consequences associated with certain violations. Secondly, drivers may take driver improvement courses to earn certain insurance discounts. Only some auto insurance providers offer these discounts, and it makes sense to check with each insurance company before attempting this strategy. Note that according to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, driver improvement courses “cost no more than $100” – and the insurance savings may be well worth this price. This strategy is particularly popular for those who face increased premiums after crashes or violations.
Involuntary Driver Improvement Courses Explained
On the other hand, drivers may have little choice but to complete driver improvement courses in Virginia. First, a judge or court may order the driver to complete this course in order to have their ticket dismissed. Alternatively, completion of a DMV-approved driver improvement course could reduce the amount of a fine. The DMV may make similar demands, especially after drivers accumulate too many demerit points within a certain amount of time. Courts often order motorists to complete driver improvement courses for first offenses. If a driver successfully completes the course before the court date, the judge may view the certificate and decide to dismiss the case. Note that this does not apply to reckless driving charges in Virginia.
How Does the Driver Improvement Course Work?
The Virginia DMV states that a driver improvement course helps motorists learn “defensive driving techniques” that could prevent future accidents. The entire course takes eight hours to complete, and motorists must complete all eight hours to receive their completion certificates. The DMV also states that drivers have 90 days to complete the course once ordered to do so. If they fail to earn their completion certificates within this 90-day window, they will lose the opportunity – and license suspension could soon follow.
Can I Take My Driver Improvement Course Online?
The DMV states that drivers may complete their courses either online or at sites located throughout the state. Many drivers prefer to take the online version for obvious reasons, although the DMV reminds motorists to check with the court to confirm whether they will accept a certificate earned online. The DMV also states that drivers under the age of 20 can enroll in either online or classroom courses.
Can I Get an Extention for My Driver Improvement Course?
It may be possible to get an extension for the 90-day time limit if drivers are attending college or serving in the military. To be eligible, service members must establish that they are either stationed outside of Virginia. Note that this exception also applies to “military dependents.” College students must also show that they are attending an institution outside of the state.
Is the Driver Improvement Course in Virginia Easy?
Although the driver improvement course might seem like an easy way to escape fines, license suspensions, and other consequences, motorists should expect a challenge. Those who have successfully completed these courses describe them as “intensive,” and some say that the classroom lessons are easier than their online alternatives. There are various driving schools to choose from, and each may have its own unique approach to the educational process. Many split lessons into various chapters, each ending with its own quiz. Motorists should also expect a final exam of sorts. According to multiple online schools, drivers must score at least 80% on the final exam to earn their certificate of completion.
Can I Fight My Traffic Charges Instead?
While the driver improvement course can help reduce or eliminate consequences for traffic offenses, it may not be necessary for some motorists. An experienced traffic defense attorney at Driving Defense Law may be able to call alleged traffic violations into question. Perhaps a traffic camera in Virginia malfunctioned and automatically issued an erroneous ticket. Perhaps an officer wrote a ticket with the wrong date or license plate number. Traffic tickets could be easier to challenge than many divers realize. Whatever the case may be, it makes sense to discuss various options alongside a lawyer before committing to the driver improvement course.
Contact Driving Defense Law To Learn More about a DMV Approved Improvement Course Today!
Although a driver improvement course could be a viable strategy when facing traffic violations, it may not be the only option. The most appropriate course of action depends on the unique circumstances of each case, and it may help to discuss these specific factors with an experienced traffic attorney in Virginia. During a consultation, drivers can discuss whether or not the driver improvement course makes sense for them. To learn more about how a DMV-approved driver improvement course works, consider calling Driving Defense Law at (757) 929-0335.
