5 Most Common Traffic Violations That Raise Insurance Rates
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A traffic ticket can cost you more than the fine. Depending on the violation, it may add points to your driving record and lead to higher car insurance rates when your policy renews.
Some violations can have a bigger impact than others, and the rules vary by state. Speeding, reckless driving, DUI, running a red light, and distracted driving are among the violations insurers may view as signs of greater risk. Below, we look at five common traffic violations that can raise insurance rates, how state point systems work, and what you can do after receiving a ticket.
Quick summary: Traffic violations most likely to increase insurance rates
When it comes to common traffic violations, some have a more significant impact on your car insurance rates than others. The table below highlights five traffic violations that can lead to higher insurance costs.
| Violation | Likelihood to Increase Insurance Rates |
| DUI/DWI | Very High |
| Reckless Driving | High |
| Speeding | High |
| Running a Red Light | Moderate to High |
| Distracted Driving | Moderate to High |
1. Speeding
Speeding tickets are among the most prevalent traffic infractions. Driving over the posted limit not only increases your risk of accidents but also often results in fines and points on your driving record. Insurance companies view speeding as a clear indicator of risky behavior and may raise your premiums accordingly.
The severity of the speeding violation matters. For instance, in New Jersey, speeding one to 14 mph over the posted limit typically results in two points on your license, while speeding more than 30 mph over can add up to five points. The more points you accumulate, the higher your risk appears to insurers, which can lead to substantial rate increases.
In California, driving over 100 mph carries additional penalties, including a fine of up to $500 for a first conviction and possible license suspension. The insurance impact of a speeding conviction varies by insurer, driving history, and other factors.
2. Running a red light or stop sign
Ignoring traffic signals such as red lights or stop signs is a dangerous violation that can lead to serious accidents. Because these violations demonstrate disregard for traffic safety, they often carry fines and points that affect your driving record.
In New Jersey, failure to observe a traffic signal or stop sign generally adds two points to your driving record. Penalties vary by state and offense, and a conviction may also affect your insurance rates.
Insurance companies may increase your rates after such a violation because it signals a higher chance of causing an accident, which directly impacts their potential payout.
3. Driving under the influence (DUI/DWI)
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is one of the most serious traffic violations. It is classified as a criminal offense in many states and can lead to severe penalties including jail sentences, license suspension, and hefty fines.
A DUI/DWI conviction almost always results in a sharp increase in insurance premiums. Some insurance companies may even refuse coverage or require you to obtain SR-22 insurance, which is a form of high-risk insurance.
In New Jersey, DUI offenses come with fines ranging from several hundred to thousands of dollars, license suspension, and potential jail time. The conviction can remain on your driving record for many years, affecting your insurance rates for a long time.
4. Reckless driving
Reckless driving involves operating a vehicle with willful disregard for the safety of others. It is often treated as a misdemeanor and can carry penalties such as fines, points on your license, and even jail sentences.
For example, in New Jersey, reckless driving adds five points to your driving record and can result in jail time, fines, and license suspension. Insurance companies view reckless driving as a major risk factor and typically increase premiums significantly after such a violation.
5. Distracted driving / texting while driving
Distracted driving, including texting or using a mobile phone while driving, is a leading cause of traffic accidents. Many states have laws prohibiting handheld device use while driving and issue citations for violations.
In New Jersey, penalties for handheld cellphone violations increase for repeat offenses. A qualifying third or subsequent offense can result in three motor vehicle points, in addition to fines and possible license suspension.
Avoiding distractions and focusing on the road is not only safer but can help you maintain lower insurance premiums.
How do points systems work in different states?
Point systems are designed to track and penalize traffic violations. Each state has its own rules about how many points are assigned for particular violations, how many points lead to license suspension, and how long points remain on your record.
For example, in Georgia, speeding 15 to 18 mph over the posted limit adds two points, while speeding over 34 mph adds six points. Accumulating 15 points within 24 months can result in license suspension and increased insurance premiums.
In Florida, speeding up to 15 mph over the limit generally adds three points, while speeding more than 15 mph over and reckless driving generally add four points. Accumulating 12 points within 12 months can result in a 30-day license suspension.
It’s important to note that not every violation affects insurance the same way. Some nonmoving violations, like parking tickets, usually do not impact insurance rates, while moving violations almost always do.
How to handle a traffic violation
If you receive a traffic violation, there are several ways to minimize its impact on your insurance rates:
- Avoid additional violations: Accumulating multiple tickets in a short time greatly increases your insurance risk.
- Maintain valid insurance: Always keep your coverage current to avoid penalties.
- Attend defensive driving courses: Many states offer traffic school options that can reduce points or lower insurance premiums.
- Review your options: Depending on the violation and state, you may be able to contest the citation or complete an approved traffic school or driver improvement program. Follow the instructions and deadlines provided with your ticket.
The impact of serious offenses like hit-and-run
Leaving the scene of an accident, also known as hit-and-run, is a serious violation that can lead to felony charges if injuries or deaths are involved. Even if only property damage occurs, it is often treated as a misdemeanor.
Penalties can include heavy fines, jail sentences, and a significant increase in insurance premiums. In California, fines for hit-and-run can reach up to $10,000 if someone is killed, with possible prison sentences of up to four years.
Insurance companies consider hit-and-run incidents extremely risky and may cancel your policy or refuse coverage.
How traffic violations affect insurance rates
Insurance companies may consider violations such as speeding, DUI/DWI, reckless driving, and running red lights when evaluating risk. The effect on your premium depends on factors such as the violation, your state, driving history, insurer, and how long the offense remains relevant under applicable rules.
Avoiding traffic violations to keep insurance rates low
The best way to avoid increased insurance rates is to drive safely and obey all traffic laws. Planning ahead, avoiding distractions, and respecting posted limits can help you stay clear of common traffic tickets.
Taking defensive driving courses and maintaining a clean driving record can also help you qualify for discounts and lower premiums.
Get car insurance after a traffic violation with Acceptance Insurance
Received a traffic ticket? Find out how it could affect your insurance rates and get a personalized auto insurance quote tailored to your current situation. Request a quote online, visit a nearby office, or call us at 877-405-7102 to speak with a local agent who can help find the best coverage and rates for you.
FAQs
Do all traffic violations affect my insurance rates?
No. Nonmoving violations such as parking tickets typically do not affect insurance rates. However, unresolved violations or multiple offenses can sometimes lead to increased premiums.
How long do traffic violations stay on my driving record?
How long a traffic violation remains on your driving record varies by state and offense. Serious violations, including DUI/DWI, may remain on the record longer than less serious moving violations.
Can I get a lower insurance rate after a ticket?
Possibly. Depending on your state and insurer, completing an approved defensive driving course or maintaining a clean record after a ticket may help reduce points or qualify you for certain discounts.
What happens if I drive with a suspended license?
Driving with a suspended or revoked license is a serious offense that can lead to heavy fines, jail time, and higher insurance costs or policy cancellation.
Can hiring a traffic ticket lawyer help?
For serious violations like DUI or reckless driving, consulting a traffic ticket lawyer can help you contest charges, potentially reducing penalties and insurance impacts.
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