Safer driving via 'information superhighway'

Georgia took a step toward allowing virtual defensive driving classes yesterday, as the state House approved a measure allowing motorists to complete courses online instead of in
person.

The measure's sponsors say it will help the state better regulate the schools, as many judges already order motorists to take online courses through uncertified programs. But critics worry that it is too lax on driving offenders and could lead to widespread fraud because there's no way to tell who is actually taking the course.

The bill requires state regulators to first sign off on the six-hour driver's improvement courses before they could be offered online. Each program would also have to have security measures to hinder fraud. The measure would not apply to DUI schools.

It passed 103-56 and now goes to the Senate.

(The Associated Press)