4 Ways Traffic Tickets Affect Your Auto Insurance Rates

​Have you ever been caught speeding or driving under the influence? Like it or not, traffic tickets can affect your driving record and will eventually affect your auto insurance rates. Insurance companies may look into your driving records and use these to compute your risk of filing a claim. Insurers perceive drivers with many traffic tickets with a greater risk of encountering an accident.

1. More Violations Increase Your Insurance Rates
   The more traffic tickets you get, the more you're likely to get higher rates. Most auto insurance companies may also look into your previous driving record, whether this is your first time to get a ticket and the frequency of your violation. Some insurers may also check how fast you were going (miles per hour over the speed limit) and where the offense happened.
   
   
2. You Will Lose Your Standard Coverage
   If you have incurred severe traffic violations, then you might find it hard to look for a private insurance company to cover you. When traditional companies cannot provide coverage, you might get lucky from a state-run plan. You can find more information about your state's risk plan from your state Department of Insurance. 
   
   
3. You May Opt To Change Your Policy
   Possibly the best way to make sure that you are covered is to change your policy. If your monthly premiums have increased, talk to your insurance agent and see how much you can save when you move to another policy. Your agent can give you the best information by comparing auto insurance plans and help you decide right away. 
   
   
4. You Might Need a Safety Driving Course
   A safety driving course can help you drive better and show your insurer that you’re serious about changing your risky driving ways. There are also some states, a defensive driving class or accident prevention course can help reduce your rates. In New York, auto insurance companies provide discounts to drivers who have passed a state-approved safety course. 

Conclusion
Speeding tickets can increase your auto insurance costs. Most insurance companies check driving records and can place drivers with traffic and speeding tickets at a higher risk even if they have never filed a claim. Drive responsively and always stay safe to enjoy easy auto insurance premiums.

At Kapasu Insurance Services Inc., we do our best to make sure that our clients are well-protected with affordable and comprehensive policies. We make sure to go the extra mile to help you with your needs. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact our agency at (760) 995-3853 or Click Here to request a free quote.