by ProgAdmin
April 29, 2009 at 09:28 AM
By Steve Mckay
We recently spoke to a few MyRate customers who are on track for substantial discounts – more than 20% - even though they drive at least 15,000 miles per year, much of it on city roads. How is this possible? Turns out it’s easier than you might think.
First, all of these great drivers plan way ahead – they start slowing down for stop signs long before they get close, and they almost never speed up to make a yellow light. They’re always ready for something ahead of them that might cause them to suddenly stop. And they stick to very consistent routines – they take the same roads to the same places at the same times every day, so they know exactly what to expect.
Some of the people we spoke to are also very aware of the condition of their car. They’re mindful of their brakes, and try to put as little wear on them as possible.
One word that was noticeably absent from our discussions was “fun.” Some of the best drivers compared their driving habits to those of “Sunday Driver”; another said they were driving “as if I’m still in driving school and the instructor is next to me” – no “wind in my hair” or “exciting acceleration around a turn” here. It made me think of how I like to take a different route to work sometimes just for variety and because the winding roads are more fun. Probably not the wisest choice, as winding roads mean I’m slowing down too fast and too often.
The good news here is, improved safety is within reach for many of us. And safety, albeit potentially dull, is a better option than dangerous fun. If it’s motion thrills you’re after, stick to roller-coasters. Meanwhile, we’ll keep talking to, and learning from, the best drivers in America.