How Much Does a Speeding Ticket Increase Your Auto Insurance Rates?
When it comes to driving, there are a lot of variables that can affect our insurance rates. One mistake that can significantly increase your insurance premiums is getting a speeding ticket. Most drivers know that getting a speeding ticket can affect their insurance rates, but they may not know exactly how much. In this blog post, we’ll explore how much a speeding ticket can affect your auto insurance rates and what factors can affect the increase.
How Much Will Your Rates Increase?
The exact increase in your insurance premiums after a speeding ticket will depend on multiple factors such as your insurance provider, your driving history, the severity of the speeding violation, and the state you reside in. On average, a single speeding ticket can increase your monthly insurance premiums by as much as $100.
Factors that Affect the Increase
The following are factors that can affect how much your insurance premiums increase after getting a speeding ticket:
Driving History
Your driving history is one of the most crucial factors considered by your insurance provider when determining your insurance rates. Drivers with prior speeding tickets or other traffic violations are considered high-risk drivers, increasing the likelihood of a higher rate increase.
Severity of the Violation
The severity of the speeding ticket also affects the increase in your auto insurance rates. High-speed violations, such as going over 25 mph above the posted speed limit or driving recklessly, can result in a more significant increase in premiums.
The State You Reside In
Each state has its own laws and regulations governing traffic violations, including speeding violations. Some states also have stricter insurance policies that result in a higher increase in premiums for speeding tickets. For example, California has a “one-point” system where every violation adds one point to your driving record, while states like Florida and Texas do not assign points unless the violation causes an accident.
How Long Will the Increase Last?
The duration of the rate increase after a speeding ticket varies depending on the insurance provider’s policies and the state you live in. Insurance companies will generally consider the violation for three to five years. During this time, you can expect to pay higher rates, and you may not be eligible for discounts or other price-reducing incentives.
Tips to Avoid Premium Rate Increases
While it’s impossible to avoid a rate increase entirely, there are a few things you can do to minimize the impact of a speeding ticket on your insurance premiums:
Drive Safely
The most obvious and straightforward way to avoid a speeding ticket is to follow traffic laws and drive safely. Always be aware of posted speed limits and slow down in conditions that require it, such as rain or heavy traffic.
Attend Traffic School
Attending traffic school is an option in some states to reduce the impact of a speeding ticket. In some cases, attending traffic school can also remove the violation from your driving record entirely.
Shop Around for Insurance
Different insurers calculate the impact of a speeding ticket differently. Be sure to compare rates from multiple providers to find one that offers the best coverage and the most affordable rates.
Conclusion
Getting a speeding ticket can significantly increase your auto insurance premiums, but the amount varies depending on multiple factors. Keep in mind that driving safely and attending traffic school can help minimize the impact a speeding ticket has on your insurance premiums. Also, be sure to shop around and compare rates from multiple insurers.