Know the Facts
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), most deaths caused by auto accidents that involve mature drivers occur during the daylight hours and on weekends. In Florida alone, the number of fatal car crashes in 2007 was 4,551. Of these crashes, 972 involved drivers of the age 55 or older. This is why car insurance companies will sometimes raise the rates for mature drivers…due to the risk involved.
Keep in Good Health
Staying in good health with a clear mind can contribute to safe driving habits. Have regular check-ups with your primary physician. Keep your eyes checked every few months with a thorough eye exam. If it will help your vision permanently, you might consider having laser eye surgery. Also, be open to comments about your health and mental stability from family members. If a family member recognizes that your memory or overall perception are not so great any longer, don’t get defensive about it. See your doctor to find out if there are ways to improve these. Getting help instead of ignoring the problem can possibly save a life on the highway!
Take a Class
Florida car insurance providers are required to give you a discount on your auto insurance if you enroll in a state-approved Florida Mature Driver Program. This is a class designed specifically for mature drivers, age 55 and older. The great thing about it is you can now take a course online from home or study in a classroom setting. Check online or at your local DMV for details.
When taking the online version, course study materials and testing are provided online, and you can study at your convenience. The questions are basically multiple choice and true/false style, and you can go online and off-line as needed until you complete the course through a student log-in system. There are six units of study to earn your Certificate of Completion. Your certificate can be sent directly to your car insurance provider to receive Florida’s mandatory discount.
Another benefit of taking the Florida Mature Driver Course is you’ll learn about new rules of the road. Let’s face it, driving has changed drastically since you first took your driver’s test. The rules and road signs have changed on highways as cities grew bigger and built new roads. Automobiles have changed. Methods of driving have improved. So it will benefit you tremendously to brush up on driving skills while saving dollars on your auto insurance.
Use Online Comparisons
If you feel your car insurance provider has increased your premium due to age, you can easily use the Internet to find better rates. Get quotes from top providers in Florida such as Progressive, State Farm, Geico, Liberty Mutual, AARP, etc. and find out which ones will cater to your needs. Florida auto insurance companies are each different in their risk assessment so it’s wise to compare at least 10 or more providers.
Don’t fret over becoming a mature driver…use the years of experience to your advantage and never stop learning. Take these steps to get affordable Florida car insurance today!
