How Traffic Violations Affect Your Car Insurance

Nobody likes to see those flashing lights in their rearview mirror, signaling that an officer has pulled over. Whether you’re running late or just having an off day, getting a ticket is never fun. Beyond the inconvenience of paying the fine, there’s another consequence: the impact on your auto insurance rates. If you’ve ever wondered how traffic violations could affect your car insurance rate, you’re not alone. Keep reading to find out how this common violation can impact your insurance costs.

When determining your auto premium, insurers review factors like your driving history, including traffic violations, to assess your risk. A clean driving record can help keep your rates low, while traffic violations—especially speeding tickets—can raise your premiums. However, not all tickets are the same. Let’s break down how different types of violations can affect your insurance.

Minor Violations

Not all tickets are the same when it comes to their impact on your insurance. A small violation, like a broken tail light or a forgotten turn signal, typically won’t raise your rates by much. These minor violations don’t suggest you’re a risky driver, so their effect tends to be minimal. However, even small violations can add up over time, so it’s important to stay on top of your driving habits.

Speeding Tickets

Speeding tickets are among the most common traffic violations. They also tend to have a more noticeable impact on your auto insurance rate. Speeding increases your likelihood of being involved in an accident. This makes you a higher risk for the insurance company. Even a single speeding ticket can cause an increase in your premium, though the amount will depend on factors like how far over the limit you were and whether it was a repeat offense.

Serious Violations

If you’re caught driving under the influence (DUI) or committing other serious violations, such as reckless driving or a hit-and-run, you can expect a major jump in your insurance rates. These offenses indicate a high level of risk, as impaired or dangerous driving greatly increases the likelihood of an accident. In addition to the financial penalties, your premiums could skyrocket, and multiple offenses can make it even harder to find affordable coverage in the future.

Exceptions to the Rule

The good news is that insurance companies sometimes show understanding when it comes to traffic violations. If you’ve been a loyal customer for years and have a clean driving history, a single speeding ticket may only result in a slight premium increase. Insurance providers take a lot of factors into account, so even if you make a mistake, your insurer may not penalize you as harshly as you might expect.

How Long Will Your Rates Stay High?

The length of time that a traffic violation impacts your insurance rates depends on your insurance carrier’s policies, whether it’s a minor infraction like a speeding ticket or a more serious violation such as a DUI. For most companies, traffic violations affect your premium for anywhere between one and five years, with more serious violations potentially having a longer impact. It’s worth checking in with your insurance provider after receiving a ticket to see how long it will affect your rates and if there are any ways to offset the increase.

How We Can Help

If you’ve recently received a speeding ticket or any other traffic violation, don’t panic. Reach out to our team to discuss your options and understand how your rates might be impacted. If you’re concerned about rising premiums or simply want to explore other coverage options, O’Quinn Insurance is here to help. Our experienced team will work with you to find the best solution based on your situation.