AARP Efforts for Safer Roads Hits a Bump in Illinois

Legislation Making it Easier to Take Nation's Most Successful Driver Safety Program Greeted with Opposition from Insurance Industry

SPRINGFIELD, Ill., April 23 -- Safer roads in Illinois has come down to a battle over discounts and access. AARP is pressing for state legislation that would take its Driver Safety Program (DSP) on-line in the state and allow participants the same discount on insurance premiums as those who take the course in the classroom. But there's a roadblock, the legislation is being opposed by the insurance industry.

Currently the Secretary of State is unable to approve on-line courses, such as AARP's, for insurance discounts, meaning those who pass the class don't get the discount that usually comes along with successful completion of a defensive driving course. The legislation, sponsored by Senator Dan Kotowski (SB 2502) and Representative Fred Crespo (HB 5731), would change that and extend a discount on insurance premiums to those who complete the class on-line or take a 4-hour refresher course in the classroom.

"AARP commends Senator Kotowski and Representative Crespo for their dedication to helping make Illinois roads safer for drivers of all ages," said Jack Reynolds, Illinois State Coordinator for AARP's Driver Safety Program. "Making these classes more accessible is a clear way to help more drivers know the rules of the road and be better defensive drivers -- this legislation is a clear step in the right direction."

The on-line course would allow participants to learn from the convenience of their own homes, or nearby libraries or senior centers and would better serve people living in rural areas that may not have access to the classroom course. The format also makes it possible to verify participant identity and measure their success.

According to an AARP survey of participants who have completed the on-line course:

92% reported they had changed at least one driving behavior
83% felt that information learned helped prevent as accident

"We're urging AARP members across the state to contact their legislators and tell them to move beyond the insurance industry's roadblock by passing this legislation," added Reynolds.

Since 1979, more than 12 million people have completed AARP's Driver Safety Program, making it the most successful course for older drivers in the nation. In 2006, AARP introduced the on-line version of the Driver Safety course in addition to the classroom course to reach more people.