Does a speeding ticket raise your car insurance?

That quick drive over the speed limit to arrive to work on time may cost you more than your speeding ticket. While a single ticket may not result in a dramatic increase, multiple violations can significantly impact your premiums. Understanding how they affect your insurance, and what you can do about it, can help you make better decisions to keep your costs as low as possible.

I got a speeding ticket. What are my options?

You have several options for how to handle speeding tickets. Each choice will have a different impact for your driving record and insurance rates.

Pay the speeding ticket in full

When you pay your ticket in full, you admit guilt and accept any fines and points that may be added to your driving record. In most states, these points can remain on your license for up to three years. This can lead to higher insurance rates, and in some cases, too many points may result in license suspension.

If you pay the ticket, monitor your driving record and insurance renewal notices closely. Some insurers may not raise your rates until your policy renews, but others could adjust your premium immediately.

Attend driving school

Many states offer drivers the opportunity to attend traffic school or a defensive driving course. Completing an approved program may allow you to have the ticket dismissed or points removed from your record. This option is often available for first-time or minor offenses and can help you avoid insurance increases.

You can check with your local DMV or court to see if you’re eligible for driving school. Be sure to complete the course within the required timeframe and submit proof to the appropriate authorities.

Fight the ticket

If you believe you were wrongly cited, you have the right to contest the ticket in court. Successfully fighting the ticket can prevent points from being added to your record and may help you avoid insurance rate hikes. However, this option requires time, preparation, and sometimes legal assistance.

Will a speeding ticket affect my insurance?

A speeding ticket can affect your insurance, but the impact depends on several factors. Insurance companies typically review your driving record when you apply for a new policy or during renewals. If a ticket appears on your record, your insurer may consider you a high risk and increase your premium.

Key points:

• Not all tickets result in higher rates. Minor infractions may have little or no impact, especially if you have a clean record.
• Major violations, such as excessive speeding or reckless driving, are more likely to trigger significant premium increases.
• Some insurers offer minor violation forgiveness programs, which may help keep your rates stable after a first offense.

If you’re unsure how a ticket will affect your rates, contact your American Family Insurance agent. They can review your policy and explain any potential changes.

Speeding ticket factors that may impact insurance

Several factors influence how a speeding ticket will affect your insurance rates:

Your insurance company

Every insurer has its own guidelines for handling traffic violations. Some companies may be more lenient with first-time offenders, while others have strict policies that result in immediate premium increases. It’s important to understand your insurer’s approach and ask questions if you’re concerned.

How many tickets you have

Your driving history plays a major role in determining your rates. Multiple tickets or violations within a short period can signal risky behavior and lead to higher premiums. In some cases, repeated offenses may result in policy non-renewal or cancellation.

If you have multiple tickets, you can enroll in a safe driving program or seek advice from your agent about ways to improve your record.

Your innocence

Successfully contesting a ticket means it won’t appear on your record, and your insurance rates should remain unaffected.

Out-of-state vs. in-state

Where you receive the ticket can make a difference. Some states share driving records with others, so an out-of-state ticket could still impact your insurance at home. Others may not report minor infractions across state lines.

If you receive a ticket while traveling, check with your local DMV and insurance agent to understand how it may affect your record and rates.

How long will speeding ticket impacts on insurance last?

Your state’s laws and your insurer’s policies will determine the duration of impact from a ticket. In many states, points from a ticket remain on your license for up to three years. Insurance companies may consider violations for three to five years when calculating premiums.

Key points:

• Some insurers only look at violations from the past three years, while others review five years of history.
• If you maintain a clean record after a ticket, your rates may decrease over time.
• Serious violations may have longer-lasting effects and could result in higher premiums for several years.

Ask your agent how long your insurer considers violations when setting rates. You can also request a copy of your driving record from your state DMV to monitor when points will drop off.

Stay protected with auto insurance from American Family Insurance

The best way to keep your car insurance rates low is to practice safe driving habits and avoid traffic violations. American Family Insurance offers programs like DriveMyWay, which rewards safe driving with potential discounts on car insurance. By tracking your driving habits, you can demonstrate responsibility and potentially lower your premiums.

Additional ways to save:

• Bundle your auto insurance with other policies, such as homeowners or renters insurance.
• Ask about discounts for good students, low mileage, or safety features on your vehicle.
• Review your coverage regularly with your agent to ensure you’re getting the best value.

If you have questions about speeding tickets, your driving record, or your insurance rates, connect with your American Family Insurance agent. They’re here to help you understand your options and keep you protected on the road.

This information does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or financial advice. You should contact a professional for advice specific to your situation.