Whether you were caught speeding (or worse) or you simply want to be a better driver, there are a wide range of defensive driving and driver improvement courses available in Texas these days.
 
But which is right for you? Here are five tips to help you decide:
 
1. Check with your state or municipality. If you’re taking training to avoid a traffic infraction, not just any course will do. You’ll need to take an approved course – ask for a list before signing up.
 
2. Check with your insurer. The same goes if you’d like to potentially save on your car insurance. Your carrier may only offer a car insurance discount for completing certain courses. Also ask how much your discount will be — this will help when it comes time to choose a course.
 
3. Choose the type of course. There are online and classroom options, typically ranging from 4-12 hours depending on the course material. And there are advantages to each. Online courses offer convenience (and sometimes a lower cost), while in-person settings can provide more interaction.
 
4. Determine how much you want to spend. If you’re trying to avoid a ticket (and a potential increase in your insurance premiums), the cost might not be much of an issue. If you’re taking a course to receive an insurance discount, however, make sure the total discount you’ll receive is greater than the cost of the course.
 
5. Check out the reviews. Online review sites, such as Yelp, can show you what others thought of a course. Keep in mind, people who felt “forced” to take a course might have a biased opinion, especially compared to someone who took the course willingly.
 
No matter why you’re considering a defensive driving course, we’re happy to help you weigh the pros and cons. The biggest pro being, once you complete your training, you’re likely to be a little more careful the next time you get behind the wheel. And, that always pays off!
 

Money can be a bit tight, especially with inflation out of control. But even in these situations, it’s important that you pay your auto insurance premium. There are severe consequences of driving without auto insurance.

It’s Illegal
When you own a vehicle, maintaining at least the minimum auto insurance is a requirement. Liability insurance is necessary to cover any damage you cause if you are in a car wreck.

Additionally, if you are driving without minimum coverage, you may get a ticket if an officer of the law stops you. As a consequence of getting pulled over, you’ll might have to pay court costs, a lawyer, your auto insurance premium, and a fee for letting your coverage lapse. In the end, a lapse in your insurance could make your financial situation worse.

Your Finance Company Requires Auto Insurance
Many people finance their vehicle purchase, instead of paying cash for their car. These agreements often requires you to maintain full coverage continually. Full coverage includes liability, collision, and comprehensive insurance coverage. Full coverage protects both you and your finance company. If you are in a wreck, full coverage will help you get your car repaired or replaced, which protects your finance company’s interests too.

You Could Get into a Wreck
Statistically, there are more distracted drivers on the road than ever before. People are driving and responding to text messages, having phone conversations, or changing the radio station. All of these behaviors prevent them from committing their undivided attention to the highway. At any moment, a distracted driver can crash into you. Or, if you are the distracted driver, you can crash into someone else. If this happens while you don’t have auto insurance, then you are in for a big surprise; your insurance won’t pay for repairs.

If you hit someone else during a lapse in coverage, your insurance company won’t cover the damage. You will be responsible for paying to repair their vehicle. The costs of doing so can easily cost thousands of dollars, which could bankrupt the average driver.

Additionally, if you are the victim, getting into a wreck without insurance is still an inconvenience. After an accident, a settlement can take weeks or months, leaving your vehicle disabled the entire time.

The takeaway is, never drive without car insurance. Call us today for a free car insurance quote.

What is an SR-22?
An SR-22 is an insurance document that shows proof of financial responsibility and verification of auto liability coverage. The DMV may require you to provide an SR-22 in addition to your car insurance if you drive under the influence of a drug or alcohol, drive without proper insurance, are a habitual traffic offender, or are involved in a motor vehicle accident.
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How does an SR-22 affect you?
An SR-22 must be carried for a designated time period, depending on the severity of your violations. Most offenders can expect to have an SR-22 for up to three years. During this time, you must maintain continuous liability coverage. Any break in coverage will be reported to the state, resulting in the suspension of your license. On top of securing adequate insurance, drivers with an SR-22 status should adhere to traffic laws and refrain from driving after alcohol consumption. After the proper fulfillment of this time period, a driver’s SR-22 status will expire, and driving privileges will be restored.
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How much does an SR-22 cost?
The cost of premiums varies depending on the severity of your violations. Minor offenses, such as neglecting to pay a parking ticket, are often paired with more affordable policies. However, major offenses, such as drinking under the influence, are more likely to raise your premiums.

To get a free quote, call us today at First Community Financial Group  for more information on SR-22 insurance.