Tennessee Speeding Tickets: Insurance Rates Surge After Citations

Speeding tickets in Tennessee can have a significant impact on insurance premiums, with drivers facing higher rates for years after receiving a ticket. The increase in insurance costs depends on several factors, including the driver's age, gender, location, driving history, and the severity of the speeding violation. While some insurers may not raise rates after a single speeding ticket, others may significantly increase premiums, with some even doubling their rates. Tennessee drivers typically pay less than the national average for car insurance, but a speeding ticket can result in a substantial financial burden, with average increases of $633 per year.

The severity of the speeding violation

The severity of a speeding violation in Tennessee is determined by how much over the speed limit a driver was travelling. The higher the speed, the more severe the violation, and the more expensive the ticket will be. For example, a minor speeding ticket for driving 10-15 mph over the limit could raise insurance rates by 10-20%, while driving 20+ mph over the limit could result in an even greater rate hike. Reckless driving, which can include excessive speeding, will also incur higher insurance costs. Tennessee assigns points based on how many mph over the speed limit a driver was travelling, and if a driver receives 12 or more points within a 12-month period, their license may be suspended.

The impact of a speeding violation on insurance rates also depends on the driver's history and their insurance provider's policies. For example, some insurers do not raise rates after a single speeding violation, while others significantly increase rates. Drivers can expect their insurance costs to rise by around 18% on average after a speeding ticket, but this can vary depending on individual circumstances.

There are ways to mitigate the impact of a speeding violation on insurance rates. Taking a defensive driving or traffic school course can result in points being removed from a driving record, and shopping around for quotes from multiple providers can help drivers find cheaper insurance. Minimum coverage will also result in a lower premium, although this only applies to parties outside of the driver's car.

How long a speeding ticket stays on your record

In Tennessee, a speeding ticket will bump up your insurance premiums. However, the state does not officially disclose how long a speeding ticket stays on your record. One source suggests that points from speeding tickets stay on your license for two years. Another source states that most insurance companies keep violations on record for three to five years.

Tennessee assigns points based on how many miles per hour over the speed limit you were driving. For example, if you were speeding 1 to 5 mph over the limit, you'll only have one point added to your license. But if you were driving 10-15 mph over the limit, you could expect your insurance rates to increase by 10-20%. More serious violations, such as driving 20+ mph over the speed limit or reckless driving, could result in an even greater rate hike.

If you accumulate 12 or more points within a 12-month period, the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security will send you a notice of proposed license suspension. You can avoid suspension by attending a hearing and taking a defensive driving class, or by taking a state-approved driver improvement course. Taking a four-hour traffic school course within 90 days of your speeding conviction can get you five points removed from your driving record once every four years.

The impact on insurance premiums

Speeding tickets are considered risky driving behaviour and can increase insurance premiums in Tennessee. The increase in insurance premiums depends on several factors, including the driver's age, gender, location, driving history, and the severity of the offence.

The severity of the offence is a major factor in determining the impact of a speeding ticket on insurance premiums. The faster a driver is going over the speed limit, the more expensive the ticket will be. A single minor speeding ticket, such as driving 10-15 mph over the limit, can raise rates by about 10-20%. More serious violations, such as driving 20+ mph over the speed limit or reckless driving, can result in an even greater rate hike. Reckless driving in Tennessee is defined as "driving with willful and wanton disregard for the safety of people and/or property". Additionally, Tennessee assigns points based on how many mph over the speed limit a driver was going. If a driver receives 12 or more points within a 12-month period, they may face a license suspension.

The impact of a speeding ticket on insurance premiums also varies by insurer. Some insurers do not raise rates after a single speeding violation, while others may significantly increase rates. It is important for drivers to shop around and compare rates from multiple providers to find the best coverage and discounts based on their preferences.

There are ways to mitigate the impact of a speeding ticket on insurance premiums. Taking a state-approved defensive driving course may lead to a discount with some carriers, and Tennessee law will remove up to five points from a driver's license if they finish an approved course within 90 days of their conviction. Additionally, bundling two or more policies, such as auto and home insurance, can help lower premiums.

Ways to reduce insurance costs after a speeding ticket

While a speeding ticket in Tennessee will likely raise your insurance costs, there are several ways to reduce the financial burden and keep your insurance rates as low as possible. Here are some strategies to mitigate the impact of a speeding ticket on your insurance:

Shop Around for Insurance Providers

Every insurance provider has a different method for determining rates, so it's worth gathering quotes from multiple companies and comparing their rates and discounts. Your current insurance provider might not offer the best rates after your speeding ticket, but other companies may view your situation differently and provide more affordable premiums.

Take a Defensive Driving or Traffic School Course

Improving your driving skills and knowledge can help reduce the impact of a speeding ticket. Tennessee law allows drivers to remove up to five points from their license by completing an approved defensive driving course within 90 days of their conviction. This not only improves your driving skills but also demonstrates to your insurance company that you are taking proactive steps to become a safer driver.

Adjust Your Coverage

While this option may require you to give up certain coverages, adjusting your coverage types, amounts, or features can help lower your insurance costs. For example, you could opt for minimum coverage, which results in the lowest premium, but keep in mind that this coverage only applies to parties outside of your car. Alternatively, you could increase your deductible, which is the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance coverage begins, thereby lowering your premiums. However, remember that if an accident occurs, you will have to pay more upfront.

Take Advantage of Discounts

Most insurance companies offer a range of discounts, so be sure to check with your agent to ensure you're utilizing all the discounts that apply to you. For instance, some companies offer a good student discount, often requiring a "B" or better grade point average. Additionally, consider bundling your homeowners' or renters' insurance policies with your auto policy, as this can often lead to valuable discounts.

Drive Carefully and Keep a Clean Record

The best way to avoid high insurance premiums is to maintain a clean driving record. Drive carefully and follow posted speed limits to avoid further violations and financial penalties. Over time, as your speeding ticket becomes less recent, your insurance rates may decrease again, especially if you avoid any further incidents.

How to fight a speeding ticket

In Tennessee, a speeding ticket will bump up your insurance premiums, making insurance companies charge you more for the same coverage as someone with a clean driving record. However, there are ways to fight a speeding ticket and keep your insurance rates low. Here are some steps you can take:

Understand the Consequences of a Speeding Ticket in Tennessee

Before deciding to fight a speeding ticket, it's important to understand the potential consequences. In Tennessee, a speeding ticket can result in legal and financial implications, including increased insurance rates, fines, and other penalties. Additionally, points will be added to your driver's license, which can lead to a license suspension if you accumulate 12 or more points within a year.

Act Quickly

It's crucial to take action promptly after receiving a speeding ticket in Tennessee. You have a limited number of days to either pay or fight the ticket, and the deadline is typically indicated as the "appearance date," "due date," or "compliance date" on the ticket. Failure to take action by this date can result in a default judgment, and in some cases, the court may issue a warrant for your arrest or suspend your driver's license.

Review the Ticket for Subjective Opinions

Law enforcement officers are required to include their personal opinions and subjective conclusions when issuing speeding tickets. If the ticket includes the officer's subjective opinion, you can challenge their perspective. For example, if you received a ticket for an unsafe lane change, you can argue that the change was necessary due to traffic or weather conditions.

Plead Not Guilty

You have the right to plead not guilty to the charges and fight the ticket without necessarily going to court. You can enter your plea online or via mail. However, keep in mind that you may still need to appear in court, as some citations require a court appearance, which will be indicated on the ticket. If you cannot attend, be sure to contact the court and reschedule to avoid facing more serious charges.

Employ Legal Representation

Consider hiring a competent traffic attorney to help you navigate the legal process and improve your chances of a successful outcome. They can guide you through the specific procedures, deadlines, and requirements for fighting a speeding ticket in Tennessee.

Explore Defenses and Evidence

To build a strong case, consider potential defenses and gather relevant evidence. One defense strategy is to demonstrate that your driving offense was necessary to avert harm to yourself or others. For example, you may have been speeding to prevent an accident or swerving to avoid a pedestrian. Additionally, you can present evidence to prove that the offense was a "mistake of fact." This could include factors such as unclear road signage or worn lane markers.

Take a Defensive Driving Course

Enrolling in a state-approved defensive driving course can not only help reduce points on your license but may also lead to discounts with certain insurance carriers. In Tennessee, completing an approved course within 90 days of your conviction can result in the removal of up to five points from your license.

Remember, every case is unique, and the specific procedures for fighting a speeding ticket may vary depending on the circumstances of your violation and the laws in Tennessee. It is always advisable to seek legal advice and carefully review the information provided by official state sources.

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