State Rep. Jaime Capelo has filed a bill that would drop that guideline to 19 mph over the limit. Capelo said the legislation is especially crucial because another proposal would boost the daytime speed limit on some Texas roads to 75 mph. If we don't change the law, and the new speed limit goes into effect, people could drive 99 mph and still be able to take defensive driving and get the ticket off their record,'' he said. Defensive driving classes, taken to dismiss traffic tickets or give drivers a 10-percent discount on automobile insurance, are meant to teach Texans to be safer drivers.
Drivers can take defensive driving once a year.
Jerry Johns, president of Southwestern Insurance Information Services, an insurance group, said he is concerned the bill would reduce the number of drivers who would or could take the class. Because of that, some insurers might not support the bill. Defensive driving emphasizes those things that many of us have forgotten over the years,'' he said. It's much like a refresher course. If you come away with one thought that may save your life, it's well worth it.