So, it finally happened.

You decided that the speed limit was more of a suggestion than a law. So you drove a little faster than usual.

But what happened next came as a shock.

An unnoticeable police car caught you exceeding the limit on their radar. So they pulled you over and issued a speeding ticket.

If you received a speeding ticket, then you’re one of countless other drivers who have received a moving violation. These moving violations all mean one big thing: paying a ticket fine.

So, how much does a moving violation cost in California state? To answer this question, let’s first explore what counts as a moving violation.

What Counts as a Moving Violation?

Moving violations are any violations of the law committed by the driver of a moving vehicle. In other words, a moving violation, also known as a traffic or driving offense, occurs when someone driving a vehicle breaks the rules of the road.

One of the most common examples is speeding. Some other familiar examples include running a red light, failure to stop at a stop sign, or driving under the influence.

NOTE: Don’t get this confused with other violation types. A driving offense is different from paperwork, parking, or equipment violations.

Infraction and Misdemeanor Moving Violations

There are two types of tickets you can receive for a moving violation. What determines the ticket type is the severity of the offense committed by the driver. The two types of traffic tickets you can receive are:

1. Infraction: Offenses of lower severity that result in smaller fines and no jail time. Examples include speeding, failing to stop at a stop sign, running a red light, and not wearing a seat belt.

2. Misdemeanor: Offenses that result in high fines and potential jail time. Examples include DUI or DWI, fleeing from the law enforcement, street racing, and driving without a license.
In the state of California, you are required to sign the traffic ticket when you get it. Doing so verifies the date and time that the ticket was issued. But, if you committed a misdemeanor, you could be arrested on the spot and your car impounded.

So what’s the point in knowing the difference between an infraction and a misdemeanor?

Infractions and misdemeanors have large impacts on fines. Knowing the difference can help you estimate the fine amount. If you committed an infraction, the ticket cost will be lower than misdemeanor ticket cost.

How Much Are Moving Violations in California?

In the state of California, moving violations vary in cost depending on the violation. Most infractions follow the same base rate but have different surcharges associated with them. A quick glance will tell us that:

● First offense has a base fine of around $100
● Second offense has a base fine of around $200
● Third offense and on has a base fine of around $300

Now, let’s say you were speeding and this was your first offense. The surcharges in California state associated with speeding are as follows:

● 1 – 15 MPH over speed limit is $35
● 16 – 25 MPH over speed limit is $70
● 26 – 99 MPH over the speed limit is $100
● 100+ MPH is $200

Another factor is the location in which the moving offense was committed. If a driver is caught speeding in a construction zone, there will be an additional fine to the total price.
In short, there can be hefty fees that violators finance upon breaking the law. Believe it or not, but the ticket fine isn’t the expensive part. It’s the long term effect tickets have on your driver’s record that will sink your bank account.

How Traffic Offenses Affect Your Car Insurance Rates

Traffic offenses have a devastating impact on your driving record. Your driving record is the long term history report you have as a driver. This helps inform your car insurance rates (monthly payments) and the status of your driver’s license.

A driving record contains your driving history. So, when you commit a traffic violation, this blemish will pop up on your record and insurance companies will take notice. As a result, your car insurance rate will increase.

Your rate is how much you pay every month towards your car insurance. At the report of an incident or violation, this rate will increase for 3 to 7 years. That means you will spend more money per month than you would have without committing the violation.

Month-to-month payments might seem small at first, but that can be deceiving. Over the course of a year, you can spend thousands of dollars more.
The reason why your insurance premiums increase is because car insurance companies see you ask a risky driver. Because you have a history of moving violations, there is a chance you will injure yourself or someone else in a road collision, which is more money out of their pocket.

Note: There is one way to reduce rising insurance premiums. That’s with traffic school. Traffic school has the ability to mask points and protect your rates.

What are Points on Your Driving Record?

The consequences of traffic violations don’t end with a fine and increased insurance rate. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) allocates points when you are involved in a moving violation or traffic accident.

Points might not sound serious but they can result in a suspended or revoked license.
Typically, a traffic offense gives you 1-2 points on your record, depending on its severity. Accidents and collisions will give you 1 point.
Your license will be suspended or revoked if you the following occurs:

● 4+ points within 1 year
● 6+ points within 2 years
● 8+ points within 3 years

Points on your record have consequences. To reinstate your CA state license, you must meet specific requirements and finance additional fees.
Now that we know the severity of moving violations, is there a way to minimize the consequences?
This all comes down to what you do next. So let’s rewind and discuss your options when you receive a ticket.

What to Do After Getting a Moving Violation

You were just handed a traffic ticket. What do you do now? Depending on the severity of the violation, you will have a few options available.

1. Contest the ticket

You can contest the CA state traffic ticket. In other words, plead “not guilty.” If you choose to do so, you will be issued a court hearing date to make your case. You can also hire an attorney to represent you in court. But you still have to pay the ticket. If you win the case, the court will return your money.
This isn’t a guaranteed solution. If you win the court case, the money is returned to you or you can get the fines lowered. But, if you lose the case, you lose the money and you will pay court fees and attorney fees, if applicable.

2. Enroll in traffic school

You might be eligible to enroll in a traffic school to hide driving record points. First time offenders or certain cases (infractions like running a red light or stop sign) are granted eligibility to take traffic school classes to help them become defensive drivers.
When you graduate from a traffic school, you can hide points and stop your insurance rates from increasing. This won’t help you pay off the initial fine, but it can prevent long term growing payments.

3. Pay the Fine

If you don’t want to deal with a court hearing, drawn out legal battles, or state schooling, you can pay the fine only. But remember, by paying the fine without traffic school, the points may stay on your record for up to three years, and you may see an increased insurance rate for that time.

Final Thoughts on Moving Violations in the State of California

Moving violations can vary in price depending on their severity. Most people dismiss how much they pay for traffic tickets. When they do, they don’t acknowledge the long term devastation that it has on your insurance rates and driving record.

The best way to reduce the long term expenses you accrue is with traffic school. That’s because traffic school demonstrates your behavior as a defensive, safe driver.
So, how much are moving violations? A lot more than a fine.

The post How Much is a Moving Violation in California? appeared first on MyImprov.

The time comes in every teen’s life where they learn how to drive a car. This ceremony is a milestone in their life because it grants them the freedom one gets from driving wherever they want, whenever they want.

This means the responsibility of educating your teen falls on you, the parent. You know how to drive, but do you know how to educate someone on how to drive?
Before you ride shotgun with someone with zero driving experience, and while they’re taking an online drivers education course, understand what to expect and how to plan when teaching your teen how to drive a car.

At What Age Should You Teach Your Child to Drive?

When your teen gets old enough, they will be expected to learn how to operate a car and get their driver’s license. You should show your child how to drive a car around the age of 16.
Around this age, teens want to go places. Whether it’s on dates or hanging out with friends, your teen will have a social life developing, and this is the best time they can learn to use the family van.

But you do not have to wait until your teen is 16 years old to drive. Some teens will express interest at an earlier age. You can decide whether they’re ready to learn based on their curiosity and competency.

How Do I Teach my 16-year-old to Drive?

Many parents don’t know how to help their kids learn to drive. When you trust your teen and you believe they have the ability to build this new skillset, you can start the teaching process. There is a lot that goes into teaching your teen how to operate a vehicle. So, here are 13 tips to help you show your 16-year-old how to drive:

1. Get them excited about driving

When your teen is excited to learn, they will become more willing to listen. Excitement goes a long way when learning new skills. It encourages people to take initiative and go the extra mile to understand something. So, when you show your teen the importance of operating a car, they will become excited, knowing that it’s the next step toward personal freedom. When they’re ready, the teaching can begin.

2. Create a practice schedule

You and your teen should commit to a practice schedule. Look at a calendar and choose several days in a week to block off time for driving. Then, decide how long you want them to practice. Make sure you’re setting these days and times in advance to hold you and your teen accountable.

3. Make goals for every session

Set a goal every session. By setting a goal, you have a clear objective when your teen gets behind the wheel. This will help break down a possibly overwhelming lesson plan. Also, goals will help your new driver focus on one lesson at a time.

4. Set a comfortable pace

As the parent, you set the pace. But you should consider where your teen is in their learning process. When you take into consideration the pace of your teen, then you can work with them at a pace that is comfortable to them. When your teen is comfortable, you can ensure a safer lesson without triggering anxiety from being overwhelmed.

5. Start small

Remember, the only driving experience your teen has is from watching you, the movies, or from playing video games. In other words, not much. They are a new driver, so you should show them the basics first. Everyone remembers maneuvering a car in an empty parking lot for one reason: it’s easy. Start them in an empty parking lot with little to no obstacles and have them familiarize themselves with the vehicle. Then, your next lessons can build upon this key first step.

6. Always encourage safe driving

Seat belts, rearview mirrors, and getting the seat adjusted are a few things teens should do when sitting in the driver seat. Parents should always encourage their teens to practice defensive driving and taking the extra steps to be safe while on the roads. Road safety is one of the most important lessons parents can teach their student drivers.

7. Show them good habits

Keep in mind, your teens will look to you for guidance on how to conduct themselves behind the wheel. A new driver will look to a seasoned driver to know what to do on the road. If you practice bad driving habits, then, chances are, your teen will too. Understand which habits make good drivers and emulate those. By doing so, you will introduce them to safe driving habits. That reassures them, and it reassures you that your teen will be safe on the roads.

8. Drive in good weather conditions

Practice driving in appropriate weather conditions. If it is their first time behind the wheel, don’t have them go on a busy highway during a torrential downpour. Keep them comfortable and you will have a comfortable ride. If the weather conditions are too harsh on a scheduled driving practice day, then you should consider rescheduling.

9. Be clear and specific

New teen drivers are prone to information overload. If you give them generic direction, then your teen might not understand what you’re referring to, which can result in a collision. When you’re giving them instructions or directions, refrain from using “right” as an affirmation. Instead, use “correct” or “yes.” Also, give them advance notice when you would like them to make a turn or other traffic maneuver. This will reduce misunderstanding and the risk of an incident.

10. Don’t forget to cover parking

There’s one thing you should remember to focus on: parking. So, how can you teach your teenager how to park a car? Familiarize yourself with the three types of parking:

● 90-degree parking
● Angle parking
● Parallel parking

When you’re comfortable with these maneuvers, schedule time with them to show them how to park. Don’t forget to make sure you understand the correct handling to park properly. This will help your teenager to know what to do to safely and successfully park the car.

11. Challenge them

One of the best ways people improve in a skill is by being challenged. This forces them outside of their comfort zone (the empty parking lot). When they overcome the challenge, their driving skills improve, and their self-confidence does too. So, when you’re scheduling practices, think about how you can challenge your teen driver.

12. Test their knowledge

As they start driving on the roads, test their knowledge. Ask them what the speed limit is, how many cars are approaching them, or which is the best lane they should be in at the moment. This will train them to look for important information while driving, such as road signs and how fast they’re driving.

13. Have patience

We want our teenagers to be the best at everything. But one flaw all humans have is the inability to be perfect right away. Teaching your teen to drive takes time, so when you’re driving around lamp posts in a parking lot or switching lanes on a highway, remember to be patient with your child. If they make an error, don’t get angry, or if they feel nervous, don’t push them too much. By doing so, you keep them motivated to improve.

How Does a Scared Teenager Learn to Drive?

Not all teenagers are enthusiastic about driving. In fact, some are downright terrified. Understanding the rules of the road for some can be overwhelming.
Before you push your teen to operate a car, you should see how comfortable they are with the idea. Some teenagers are scared to get behind the wheel. In this situation, here are some tips you can use to help a scared teen driver:

Hear their perspective

When someone is scared, their brain tells them they’re in danger. If your teenager is scared about driving, then they are perceiving a danger surrounding it. That’s why you should hear their perspective. Let them know that you understand their fear. This will help them feel heard so they can start overcoming this fear.

Show them the importance of driving

When they’re ready to listen, show them the importance of driving and the empowerment it brings. They may be letting the fear outweigh the excitement that comes with learning a new skill. Show them the perks of driving, and it can turn something scary into something exciting.

Expose them to driving and reinforce positive development

Introduce driving to them in small bite sizes. You can introduce them to the car without switching gears or leaving the driveway. When you create a safe environment for your teenager, they will let go of the fear they had about driving. Also, positively reinforce good behavior. When they show interest or start driving, you should encourage them. This will help them develop driving skills.

Be patient and let them show interest

The last thing you want to do is pressure your teenager into driving. This will turn them off from learning and create a dangerous environment for them and yourself. Work at a comfortable pace and remember to be patient. Don’t lose your temper and encourage secondhand road rage. Helping your scared teenager takes time, which requires patience from the parent.

Enroll them into a driving school

Finally, you can enroll your teenager into driving school. Professionals can help your teenager become comfortable with operating a vehicle. They have experience working with students from every background and skill level. By doing so, you are guaranteeing them a safe educational experience.

Final Thoughts on Teaching a Teen to Drive

Your teenager has reached a milestone in their life. They’re learning to drive so they can embrace a greater sense of freedom. As a parent, this is an exciting time to show your teens the important skills necessary to help them become better drivers. Always be patient and considerate when you are teaching your teen how to operate a vehicle. When you do, you help your teenager to drive better and create a safer road for everyone.

The post How to Teach a Teen to Drive appeared first on MyImprov.

You finished your driver’s ed course and have practiced driving behind the wheel for months. When you are driving with friends and family, you are the ultimate professional. Now there is only one thing standing between you and that glorious, coming-of-age memento also known as the driver’s license: the driving test. However, just thinking about being judged for your driving skills makes you nervous. What if your nerves get the best of you? Could you possibly fail and need a do-over?

We cannot let that happen. That is why we are going to tell you the 10 most common mistakes to avoid on a driver’s test. As long as you know these are the “moves” to “steer clear of,” you will be holding that sliver of gold in no time!

10. Reverse Park Control

While some states have removed parallel parking from their driving tests, others have not. Double check with your state’s policies to see if this maneuver will be tested during your behind-the-wheel test. If it is, do not worry that much. The driving instructor will not ask you to park your car in a really tight spot. However, they may cast a mark against you for complete misjudgment or if you demonstrate a complete loss of control while attempting this less-than-fun parking skill.

9. Positioning

Make sure you are aware of the lane markings around the school or DMV where you will be taking your drivers test. A common mistake for new drivers is taking up more than one lane while driving. Make sure you stay in your lane at all times. Except, of course, during the times the instructor asks you to change lanes or make a turn.

8. Response to Traffic Lights and Signs

Believe it or not, some people actually respond too slowly to green traffic lights. When the light turns green take a moment to make sure it is safe to drive, but do not wait there uncomfortably. Same goes with stopping at a stop sign. Make a complete stop, check for safety, then mildly step on the accelerator. Make sure you know when it is your turn to go during a 4-way stop. Remember if you and another car come to an intersection at the same time, the car to the right has the right of way and gets to go first.

7. Right turns

Make sure you position your car correctly for right turns. Your car should not cut the corner and should be positioned behind the white line. Look for cyclists, motorcycles, and pedestrians and yield to their right of way. Even if they are waving you to go first, it is always best to let them go before you.

6. Steering

Maintain normal, steady steering at all times. Instructors are looking for a smooth ride throughout your test. Do not drive one handed. Keep both hands on the wheel at all times and make hand-over-hand turns. Make sure you are driving along the contour of driveways, curbs, entrances and exits. You will lose points for lack of steering control. Hitting the curb would fall under this category as well.

5. Check Mirrors

Check both rear-view and side mirrors when making a lane change or turn. It is always good to check them while at a stop sign or signal as well. Major points are deducted when you do not follow this rule.

4. Observation

Similar to the action of checking your mirrors, looking both ways before you cross an intersection is a must. Make sure it is absolutely safe before you proceed.

3. Driving too slow or fast

Make sure you are driving the speed limit. Driving too slowly does not mean you are driving more safely. It will count against you just as much as driving too fast will. It is wise to check the speed limit signs around the neighborhood that you will be taking your driving test in.

2. Improper Lane Changing

One of the most common mistakes students make during their driving test is forgetting to use their turn signals. When your driving instructor instructs you to change lanes, that is your cue to turn on your turn signal. Then check your mirrors – all of them. Then make the lane change.

1. Rolling Stops

The number one common mistake (in most states) students make during their driving test: not making complete stops at stop signs. Perhaps you learned this unacceptable boo-boo from a parent or relative. Many drivers love to come to a rolling stop at stop signs, and even receive a good amount of traffic tickets for doing so. Many students will slow down, but you need to make a complete full stop. Make sure your car is behind the demarcation line as well.

The post The Top 10 Most Common Mistakes to Avoid on a Drivers Test appeared first on MyImprov.

Sitting in traffic can be irritating, but it will also cost you. Currently, Americans spend close to 100 hours each year in traffic, which ends up costing the U.S. billions in dollars for gas money and wear on our automobiles.
You can start saving now by following our guide to avoid the worst cities for traffic in the US. We included hours and cost per person, rush hour, worst time to drive, roads to avoid and reason why each city has so much traffic.

10. Atlanta, Georgia

Hours lost in congestion per person in 2019: 82
Cost of congestion per driver: $1,214
Rush hour: It can start as early as 4 a.m., and it can last as late as 10 p.m.
Worst time to drive: 6 a.m.-7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m.
Road(s) to avoid: Avoid I-285 if possible.
Why there is so much traffic here: Atlanta’s strange grid and its focus on building over infrastructure.

9. Baltimore, Maryland

Hours lost: 84
Cost: $1,243
Rush hour: 6–10 a.m. and 4–8 p.m.
Worst time to drive: Holiday weekends.
Road(s) to avoid: Avoid I-695 if possible.
Why: Officials blame the outdated signal system. An “antiquated” network of traffic signals is contributing to traffic in the busier Baltimore neighborhoods as well as downtown.

8. Portland, Oregon

Hours lost: 89
Cost: $1,317
Rush hour: 7:15 a.m. – 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Worst time to drive: 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 am.
Road(s) to avoid: I-5 if possible. Also note: the 3.5 mile-stretch from Denney Road to Interstate 5 gets choked up for 5 hours and 15 minutes a day.
Why: The growing population and construction.

7. San Francisco, California

Hours lost: 97
Cost: $1,436
Rush hour: Typical rush hour times are 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Worst time to drive: Downtown traffic and traffic to the Bay Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge are the worst, between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m.
Road(s) to avoid: Lombard Street. It is an iconic San Francisco street and traffic is usually gridlocked.
Why: The city is surrounded on 3 sides by water, and it is only 49 square miles. Unable to expand outward and having a million people and growing population squeeze in, causes the traffic to grow.

6. Los Angeles, California

Hours lost: 103
Cost: $1,524
Rush hour: Weekdays 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Worst time to drive: Fridays 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Road(s) to avoid: I-405 or using the route: I-101 to I-134 to I-110.
Why: L.A. is one of the worst cities for traffic in the US because the city’s population density is increasing, which means more and more people are sharing the same amount of space in the city.

5. Washington, D.C.

Hours lost: 124
Cost: $1,835
Rush hour: 6 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., and 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Worst time to drive: Rush hours on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
Road(s) to avoid: The Woodrow Wilson Bridge and the American Legion Bridge, and the intersection of New York Ave. and Florida Avenue NE.
Why: The road system in DC proper is terrible, especially the diagonal intersections with N-S and E-W streets.

4. New York City, New York

Hours lost: 140
Cost: $2,072
Rush hour: 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Worst time to drive: In and out of Manhattan between 8-9 a.m. and 3-7 p.m.
Road(s) to avoid: Taconic State Parkway and I-87.
Why: The constrained street space in Manhattan and the practically unlimited demand to use it.

3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Hours lost: 142
Cost: $2,102
Rush hour: 7-9:30 a.m., and 3:30-6 p.m.
Worst time to drive: 6 a.m.
Road(s) to avoid: Interstate 676 between I-95 and I-76 or on state Route 611 between the Pennsylvania Turnpike and I-95 especially during rush hour.
Why: More people, more construction, more drivers, and more businesses all contribute to the morass.

2. Chicago, Illinois

Hours lost: 145
Cost: $2,146
Rush hour: 7:30-930 a.m. and 4-6 p.m.
Worst time to drive: Thursday and Friday in the evenings.
Road(s) to avoid: I-90/I-94 from Dan Ryan Expressway/Chicago Skyway junction, and from Claybourn to West Division Street (North of City).
Why: The high concentration of destinations within Chicago’s dense downtown. Also, Chicago is one of the worst cities for traffic in the US during the summer because of the amount of construction work they do during that season.

1. Boston, Massachusetts

Hours lost: 149
Cost: $2,205
Rush hour: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and from 3:00 P p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Road(s) to avoid: Route 2 Far West between I-91, Greenfield and Routes 110 and 111, Harvard.
Why: “Boston” is part of a densely packed coalition of cities and towns that which contain 4-5 million residents. Population growth and the lack of coordinated planning also contribute to the factor of why this city has the worst traffic in America.

The post Worst Cities for Traffic in the US (Top 10) appeared first on MyImprov.

Extra fees. Hidden fees. They seem to sneak into the price of most products and services, including driving school costs.
Although you may think these prices are “made up” and only serve the purpose of increasing a company’s profit margin, usually the fees are legitimate and go to outside vendors and merchants.

Driving School and Behind-the-Wheel Classes

Gasoline

Driving school prices will fluctuate depending on the state and city of the school. One of the main reasons behind the behind-the-wheel course cost is gasoline prices. If you live in a city with expensive gas prices, then it may be worth it to consider taking a driving class in a different city, which has lower gas prices. Also, some cars have better gas mileage than others. It may be beneficial to find a behind-the-wheel course that will allow you to drive your own car during the class (especially if your own car gets great gas mileage). You may also want to avoid the worst cities for traffic in the US when choosing where to go to driving school.

Instructors

Driving school instructors also charge varying prices. Their hourly rate depends on experience, and again, also city and state.
Do not be tempted to choose a driving school based solely on their price! Make sure the driving instructor is qualified and the school’s curriculum is up to date.
Driving courses could end up costing you hundreds of dollars. If your state doesn’t require taking a driving school to receive a driver’s license and will allow you to practice driving with a family member at home, then it could save you a lot of money if you’ve got the time to train with parents, or with your children.

Online Driver’s Ed

DMV Reporting Fee

Some states will allow individuals to take the written portion of the driver’s ed training online. Prices are competitive for each state, but you may see extra fees added on to these courses as well. You may notice a DMV Certificate Processing Fee tacked on to the course price. This is how much the state’s DMV charges the online school to report their completion to the DMV and to have them add it to the student’s driving record. This amount of money goes straight to the DMV. The online driving school does not get to pocket any of it.

Mailing Fee

You may also see mailing fees added to your online driver’s ed receipt. This, of course, goes to the post office for stamp costs if you choose to have your certificate mailed to you. Some schools offer free downloads, where you can print the certificate from a home computer. Check to see if your school offers this benefit.

Online Defensive Driving Courses

State Fees

Online defensive driving courses are driving courses that can either help remove points off of one’s driving record, stop points from being added to one’s driving record, or give you a reduction on your auto insurance. Because they are dealing with driving records, they are dealing with the state’s DMV or a state’s driver’s license office, and online schools may charge state reporting fees. These fees differ depending on the state. As of 2020, the NY DMV charges $8.00 per certificate, and the Michigan Department of State charges $17.50 for their reporting fee.

Postal Fee

Physically mailing a completion certificate may be mandatory in some states. For those states where it is mandatory, you will see a regular mail fee from $1.00 and up. If you are in a hurry to turn in the certificate to your court, expedited shipping along with extra shipping costs may appear on your bill.

Extra Options, Extra Fees

Online defensive driving schools also may offer various bonus options to make their courses more fun or easier to complete. They may offer an audio read-along or a video option for an additional cost. Extra sample test questions and expedited shipping have also been popular add-on items students will pay extra money to receive.

Online Traffic School Courses

Online traffic schools are driving courses for those who wish to stop the points from a traffic ticket going on their driving record. You may see additional fees for DMV reporting, mailing, audio, video, and expedited shipping on the receipt depending on the online school. Please note that some COURTS will actually charge additional fees for giving you the opportunity to take traffic school. You will pay that fee to the court when you pay your ticket; you will not pay that fee to the traffic school – with one exception:

Arizona Traffic School Exception

Arizona is the only state where you WILL pay the traffic school the court fees if you are eligible to take traffic school. In other states, you will pay the traffic ticket fine and any additional court fees to the court and the traffic school fees to the traffic school. For Arizona, you will pay ALL fees to the traffic school.

The traffic school does not KEEP the court fees, however. They are responsible for paying those fees to the court for you, from your payment.

If you recently received a traffic ticket, need a defensive driving course, or want to take a driver’s education course, click here for the prices and the lowest fees: www.MyImprov.com

The post Driving School Costs – What Are The Extra Fees? appeared first on MyImprov.

1. Write a Short Story

You may be amazed at how fun it is to write a story when you get to choose the genre and cast of characters. You no longer have to wait for your English teacher to assign you the task of writing a modern sci-fi adventure starring yourself as the lead protagonist. You can write it now! You may be surprised how the outline and structure you’ve learned during class comes to life. The struggle of finding your introduction, conflict, and resolution may come naturally. This activity will come in handy when you’re thinking about what to do when you’re bored at home alone.

2. Take an Online Driver’s Ed Course

You can learn to drive while you are bored at home! In some states, you do not have to sit in a classroom to get credit for taking a driver’s ed course. For California, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, and Nevada, you can take driver’s ed online! You can log off and on as often as you like and complete the course at your own pace. For FL, IN, and KY, where the state time requirement is only 4 hours, you can even finish the course in one sitting if you like! You’ll be one step closer to having your driver’s license in a matter of days or hours!

3. Play Scrabble

This game has been around since 1933 and is still a favorite board game among teens and families! For almost a century the game has created competition of the wits across the globe. Try tallying how many words you and your competitor challenged each other to look up per game and see how many words you learned each day! Was it more than you did in English class? For those of you who are competitor-less, try playing against yourself! Give “Player 2” an evil name like “Corona,” or that of your ex. No cheating necessary.

4. Bake Something from Scratch

Cooking is one of the most educational yet fun things to do when bored! Going to school, studying, and football practice may have stopped you in the past from developing your culinary skills. Now you can unleash them! Once you learn the basics, you’ll be surprised what you can do. Oh, and you may have heard that the best way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, but did you know the same rings true for women? Girls of all ages find it endearing when their date cooks for them. Learning a new recipe is one of the best things to do when bored for guys and girls! It is the perfect time to learn how to measure, baste, blanch, and create a dish you’ll love to share with friends and family… and a few that you’ll save for that special someone.

5. Learn a New Language

Learning a new language has been on the list of top teen activities for years. For those who are already studying a different language in school, you can step away from the conjugation overload and focus on knowing where to place the accent and roll the “R.” You can also enjoy getting ahead of the lesson plan so when you go back to school, you’ll sound like a native speaker. For those who did not pick a language as an elective, you can start off casually by learning how to say a few words and your favorite phrases in a different language. There are also many online tools and apps that can assist you as well, such as Duolingo or Spanishdict.

6. Take a FREE DMV Practice Test

If driving a car down a long, windy road towards the beach comes to mind as one of the things to do when bored, but you do not have your driver’s license yet, then taking a free DMV practice test can make it happen! You’ll have unlimited access to quiz yourself until you know the DMV Driver’s handbook like the back of your hand. You’ll probably discover that most of the rules of the road are common sense, but you’ll definitely learn some new defensive driving skills and techniques that will keep you safe and become a better driver.
See how distracted driving affects your driving with this driving simulation video game.

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The post Top 6 Things to Do When You’re Bored Teens appeared first on MyImprov.

The U.S. battle with the coronavirus has left many Americans struggling to pay their bills. As state and local governments continue to order business closures, lockdowns and curfews, out-of-work homeowners are wondering how to stretch their dollar. We have prepared some tips that can help you now.

1. Defer Your Payments

Take Advantage of Fine-Free Extensions

Various banks, government agencies, and privately owned companies are allowing members to defer their payments, free of any fines. Homeowners are being allowed to miss mortgage payments while some renters are also being approved to make late payments. If your household income has taken a toll due to the corona virus, check with your credit card and utility company to see if they accept deferred remittance.

For more tips on how to increase your financial security, click here.

2. Take an Online Insurance Discount Course

Take Advantage of State-Mandated Insurance Discounts

Taking a state-mandated insurance discount course will save you up to 10%* on your current auto insurance premium without changing your policy. In some states, such as New York and Delaware, these discounts are good for 3 years even if you switch to another insurance carrier. The discount is applied to every member of your household who has a vehicle, so your family can save hundreds if not thousands. Most auto insurance companies throughout the nation will accept a defensive driving (or insurance discount) completion certificate to satisfy an insurance break, even in states where an insurance discount is not mandated by law. The discounts vary by state and age restrictions may apply. Check with your agent to see if you qualify.

Learn about our insurance discount courses.
Learn more about insurance discount courses for mature drivers (55+ years old).

3. Take an Online Driver’s Ed Course

Take Advantage of Special Discounts for Online Driver’s Ed Courses
Driving schools may be closed for now, but teenagers can still take driver’s ed courses online at www.MyImprov.com. Our award-wining online drivers education program is 100% online. These courses have been proven effective in reducing crashes and injuries. So, when our coasts are clear and safe of the corona virus and your teen can leave the house, they can also feel safe behind the wheel. Special discount pricing is available now.

Learn more about our driver’s education courses online.

4. Clear Up Your Traffic Ticket While You’re at Home

Take an Online Traffic School or Defensive Driving Course
If you have a traffic ticket, this would be a good time to clear that up while you have downtime at home.
Take a state-approved online defensive driving class or traffic school to keep these tickets of your record and prevent your insurance rates from going up. You can do the course in one sitting or log off and back on as often as you like. For most states, we’ll even report the completion to the court for you!

Find your state and take the course now.

5. Join A Referral Program

Take Advantage of Making Money While Stuck at Home
Don’t need any of these services, but have friends or family that do? You can join our referral program and earn cash for every person you refer. We provide online courses for every state. Once you sign up, we send you link. You can refer friends by sending them that link or refer multiple friends by sharing the link on your social media channels! You’ll see your PayPal account balance rise every time a referral completes a course!

Learn more and sign up for our Referral Program now.

6. Working from Home? Join an Affiliate Program

Take Advantage of Partnership Opportunities and Corporate Clients
If you run a website or a popular blog you can also join our affiliate partner program and earn much higher commission. You will be joining our growing partnership network, including some of the biggest names in the industry, including Geico, the U.S. Army, Uber and Lyft, who use our online training courses to drive their TRAINING objectives.

You can create additional revenue streams for your business by earning generous commissions while driving value to your customers. You can offer online drivers ed and state-mandated insurance discount courses to your friends and clients!

Learn more about our affiliate partnership program.

The post 6 Things to do to Stretch Your Dollar During Coronavirus appeared first on MyImprov.

If you require glasses while driving then wear them. Driving without corrective lenses can result in injury to yourself and others. If your driver’s license includes a corrective lenses restriction, you have to wear your glasses when driving. Being caught driving without glasses is a serious offense in nearly every state.

What Happens if You Get Caught Driving Without Your Glasses?

Driving without glasses results in a traffic ticket or an even more severe traffic penalty. You may face the following penalties for driving without glasses:

• North Carolina – Same as driving without a license (up to $500 fine)
• Florida – Driving without glasses is a moving violation and a second-degree misdemeanor (up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine)
• Texas – A restriction code violation with a fine of over $200 fine

What is a Corrective Lenses Restriction?

A corrective lenses restriction is a notation on the driver’s license. In New York State, the restriction requires the driver to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses when driving. The words “corrective lenses” is printed on the front of the license and some states include further information on the back of the license. Defensive driving school is designed to help drivers learn to predict and anticipate what others drivers may do. If a driver is not wearing their glasses you may have to react more quickly and make up for their inability to see.

Can You Get a Driver’s License if You Are Blind in One Eye?

Although driving restrictions vary from state to state, it is against federal law to prohibit people who are blind in one eye from securing a driver’s license. As long as the individual can pass the same tests administered to everyone else, they are able to get a drivers license. Some states do not allow people with so-called monocular vision to drive at night. Be sure to do your research at your local DMV to determine if you qualify.

The post Driving Without Glasses appeared first on MyImprov.

Shot of a happy young woman sitting in her car

Points on your record can make it difficult to acquire affordable car insurance rates.  Fortunately, it does not take a huge ordeal to clean up your driving record and remove points. Enrolling in, and completing a defensive driving course is a great way to show that you are taking steps to better your driving skills.

What do Points Mean?

When you are convicted of a traffic infraction, points will be added to your driving record. If you continue to accumulate points, you may be subject to fines or a suspension of your driving privileges.

Points and Violations on NJ DMV Driving Record

In the state of New Jersey, drivers are given a surcharge if six 6 points or more are posted to their NJ driving record a three-year period. In addition to court fees, these fines must be paid annually for three years. Once a NJ driver accumulates NJ speeding ticket points and other violations that equal 12 points or more, their NJ license may be suspended.

Common Violations

• Failure to yield right of way to a pedestrian 2 points
• Disregarding traffic signals 2 points
• Failing to obey stop/yield sign 2 points
• U-turn violation 3 points
• Illegal passing 4 points
• Reckless driving 5 points
• Passing a stopped school bus 5 points
• Speeding – 15 to 29 MPH over 4 points

30 MPH or more over 5 points

If NJ speeding ticket points are starting to add up, New Jersey drivers can take an MVC approved defensive driving course to reduce NJ speeding ticket points, New Jersey speeding ticket fines, and insurance premiums. These state-approved defensive driving schools are even conveniently available online.

Although the accumulation of points can be a negative thing, there are ways to have points removed from your NJ driving record. Drivers can have up to 3 points removed from their driving point total one year after any of these instances:

• Last NJ moving violation
• No violations within the past year

In addition, with the completion of an approved driver improvement program, up to two points can be deducted from a NJ defensive driving school course every five years. For more information, please contact your NJ MVC.

The post Removing Points from NJ DMV Driving Record appeared first on MyImprov.

With some special adjustments and teaching it is possible for those with disabilities to navigate the roads just like able-bodied drivers. Living with a physical disability does not have to mean you are grounded. The ADA, American Disabilities Act) amended the law in 2008 so that the DMV could not deny someone a license based only on their disability. If you want more answers to your burning questions to continue to read. If you go on to enjoy this post check out our other article on Epileptic Drivers.  

Can You Drive if You Are in a Wheelchair?

Yes, thanks to many advances in technology, disabled drivers who use wheelchairs are able to drive. Wheelchairs can be customized to match the motor skills of each individual driver for handicap driving. They are tested by the department of motor vehicles in their home state and when appropriate, restrictions will be noted on their driver’s license. Disabled drivers will also need to be trained at a conventional traffic school or online traffic school. 

Can a Paralyzed Person Drive?

While the way in which they learn and tools which are needed might be different, it is still possible for a paralyzed person to drive. Things that are taken into consideration include the severity of paralysis and vehicle the person is operating.

In What States Can a Disabled Person Drive?

State DMV’s are prohibited from denying disabled drivers from securing a driver’s license. Vehicles must be equipped with proper modifications and drivers must still pass a drivers test. Drivers licenses issued in one state are also valid in all other 50 states. You should also check to see if you qualify for a disabled placard in your state. In Florida, you might be eligible for a disabled placard if you suffer from a cardiac condition, can’t walk more than 200ft without resting, as well as other qualifiers. 

How Much Does it Cost to Modify a Car for Handicapped?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), costs to modify an existing car for handicap driving range from as little as $50 for special mirrors to a few hundred dollars for special hand controls. Specially equipped vehicles with ramps and raised ceilings range from $20,000 – 80,000. You can download a PDF file from the NHTSA website that provides additional information. Some vehicles let disabled drivers actually stay in their wheelchair while driving. Other vehicles allow wheelchairs to fold up for easy storage and transportation. Other possible modifications to existing vehicles include installing wheelchair lifts, raised ceilings and special floor mounts. These modifications tend to be expensive and they must be approved by state DMV’s.

The post Disabled Drivers: Understanding Handicap Driving appeared first on MyImprov.