Alyssa Lane
Traffic tickets are a common cause of increased car insurance rates. The impact on insurance costs depends on the type of violation, the driver's state, their insurance company, and their driving record. Generally, non-moving violations, such as parking tickets, do not affect insurance rates, while moving violations, like speeding, running a red light, or following too closely, often do. The severity of the violation also matters, with more serious offences resulting in higher insurance premiums. For example, a speeding ticket in New York can increase insurance rates by an average of $2,269, while a DUI results in an average increase of $2,860. In addition, the number of violations is significant, with insurance companies typically considering a driver's record for three years after an infraction. Accumulating multiple violations within this period can lead to significant insurance rate increases.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of violation | Following too closely |
| Impact on insurance rates | Insurance rates may increase |
| Severity of violation | Mid-level violation |
| First offence | Likely to have a lower increase |
| Multiple offences | Likely to have a higher increase |
| State-specific variations | Yes |
| Insurer-specific variations | Yes |
| Timeframe | Rates may increase for up to three years |
| Discounts | Safe driving discounts may be lost |
| Driving course | Taking a course can help maintain low rates |
| Credit score | Maintaining a strong credit score helps |
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What You'll Learn
The impact of a 'following closely' ticket on insurance rates
The impact of a following-too-closely ticket on insurance rates depends on a variety of factors, including the state, the insurer, and the driver's record. While a single traffic ticket may not always result in an immediate increase in insurance rates, multiple violations within a short period can significantly impact insurance costs.
In general, insurers consider violations on a driver's record for three years after the infraction. During this period, the driver's insurance costs may remain unchanged if they have already paid for an annual or semi-annual policy. However, when it comes to policy renewal, insurers typically review the driver's Motor Vehicle Record (MVR), and the price of the policy is likely to be adjusted.
The severity of the violation also plays a crucial role in determining the impact on insurance rates. More serious violations, such as reckless driving, DUI, or highway racing, can result in a much higher percentage increase in insurance premiums. Mid-level violations, such as texting while driving, careless driving, or following too closely, can lead to a moderate impact on insurance rates. Less serious violations, such as driving without a permit or license, are likely to result in a lower percentage increase.
Additionally, the impact of a following-too-closely ticket on insurance rates can vary across states. For example, a speeding ticket in New York can result in an average increase of $2,269, while in Hawaii, insurance rates could go up by as much as 101% after a speeding ticket. Similarly, in Missouri, accumulating eight points on your driving record within an 18-month period can have significant consequences.
It is worth noting that some insurers offer "ticket forgiveness" programs, which waive the premium surcharge for first-time incidents. Furthermore, taking a defensive driving course and maintaining a strong credit score can help keep insurance rates low. While a following-too-closely ticket may not always result in a significant increase in insurance rates, it is essential for drivers to be aware of the potential financial implications and take steps to maintain a clean driving record.
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State-specific insurance rate increases
While getting a ticket for following too closely can increase your insurance rates, the extent of the increase depends on several factors, including the state in which the violation occurred, the severity of the violation, and the insurance company.
- Hawaii — A single speeding ticket in Hawaii can increase insurance rates by 85% on average, with some sources citing an increase as high as 101%.
- Pennsylvania — Drivers in Pennsylvania can expect a 15-19% increase in insurance rates after a speeding ticket, the lowest increase nationwide.
- North Carolina — A speeding ticket in North Carolina can result in a 50% increase in insurance rates.
- California — A DUI violation in California can lead to a 160% increase in insurance rates, while the same offense in Maine results in a 73% increase.
- Arkansas — Arkansas has the second-lowest increase in insurance rates due to speeding tickets, with an average increase of $887.
It's important to note that insurance companies may assign different penalties, or none at all, even in states where violations typically result in steep cost spikes. Additionally, the impact of a ticket on insurance rates typically lasts for three years, and drivers may not be eligible for "good driver" discounts until they've been violation-free for five years.
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Minor violations and their impact on insurance
While getting a ticket for following too closely is not ideal, it's important to understand how minor violations can impact your insurance rates. Minor traffic violations, such as running a stop sign, typically result in a fine and can lead to an increase in your insurance premium upon policy renewal. These violations are considered less serious than major offences, which carry legal implications. However, the impact on your insurance rates can vary depending on several factors.
Firstly, the type of violation matters. Minor moving violations, such as speeding or running a red light, are generally viewed more severely by insurers than non-moving violations, such as parking tickets or broken taillights. This is because moving violations are directly related to your driving ability and are considered riskier behaviours. The severity of the violation within its category also plays a role. For example, speeding 6-10 mph over the limit will result in a smaller insurance penalty than speeding 21-25 mph over, as the latter is more reckless and likely to lead to serious accidents and subsequent insurance claims.
Secondly, the number of violations is significant. Generally, your insurance rates may not increase after your first minor violation, but they are likely to rise if you receive two or more tickets within a three-year period. This is because insurers consider drivers with multiple violations as higher-risk, making them more likely to file insurance claims. Additionally, the impact of minor violations can depend on your state or insurer. Some states treat minor violations as insignificant, resulting in minimal or no changes to your insurance rates, while others may consider them more seriously. Similarly, different insurers may treat the same violation differently when determining rate adjustments.
It's worth noting that some insurers report that minor violations may raise premiums by a small amount for every dollar you're already paying. For example, if your monthly premium is $100, a minor violation could increase it to around $110. This can add up over time, especially when combined with other violations. To prepare for any potential increase, it's recommended to contact your insurance agent or broker after receiving a ticket to understand how it might affect your premium. While minor violations may not significantly impact your insurance rates, the best way to avoid any increase is to drive safely and avoid infractions altogether.
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How insurers treat violations
Traffic tickets can increase your car insurance premium, but the impact on your rates depends on several factors, including the type of violation, its severity, your driving record, and where you live. Insurers typically consider violations on your record for three years after the infraction, but more serious violations, such as DUIs, can impact your rates for up to 10 years.
Non-moving violations, such as parking tickets, generally do not affect your insurance rates unless you fail to address them. For example, not paying several parking tickets or ignoring a fix-it ticket could lead to a rate increase. However, insurance companies treat violations differently, and some may consider multiple non-moving violations as a sign of risky behaviour and adjust your car insurance costs accordingly.
Moving violations, on the other hand, can have a significant impact on your insurance premiums. The most serious offences, like driving under the influence (DUI) or hit-and-run violations, can result in rate increases of 93% to 95% or even lead to policy cancellation. Speeding tickets are also considered moving violations and can increase your insurance rates by anywhere from 15% to 101%, depending on the state and how much over the speed limit you were travelling. For example, speeding between 6-10 mph over the limit may increase your rates by an average of $40 per month, while speeding 21-25 mph over may raise your rates by $54 per month.
While your insurance costs may not increase after your first ticket, they are likely to rise if you receive two or more tickets within three years. The impact of a traffic violation on your insurance rates also depends on your insurer, with some companies offering lower premium increases for first-time offences. Additionally, if you have a family plan, your rates may increase if your partner or children are caught violating traffic laws.
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How to reduce insurance costs after a violation
A "following closely" ticket is a moving violation, and these types of violations can affect your insurance rates. The more serious the violation, the more you can expect to see your rates increase. For example, a single speeding ticket could increase your rate by an average of 19%-64% at your next renewal. However, some tickets may not affect your rates at all.
Take a Defensive Driving Course
In some states, you can prevent certain violations from appearing on your driving record by completing an online defensive driving course. You may also be able to take an in-person driving safety course to achieve the same result. This option typically requires you to pay a traffic school fee on top of your court fees, but it could be worth the investment to prevent higher insurance rates in the long run.
Shop Around for a New Insurance Provider
Different insurance companies will vary in their rate adjustments. Some companies, such as State Farm, Progressive, and Allstate, have lower premium increases following a speeding ticket. If you're shopping for new auto insurance, try using an auto insurance comparison tool to view different insurers' offerings side by side to find the best option for you.
Improve Your Credit Score
Many states allow insurers to consider credit-based insurance scores when calculating your premium. Improving your credit score may help lower your auto insurance costs. Check your credit report and FICO® Score to see where you stand, and take steps to address any issues or improve your credit.
Avoid Further Violations
Insurance companies typically consider violations on your record for three years after the infraction, and your rates are likely to rise if you receive two or more tickets within this period. Avoid further violations to prevent your insurance costs from increasing further.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, your insurance rates may increase after a following-too-closely ticket, as it is considered a moving violation. The increase in insurance rates depends on the state and insurer.
The increase in insurance rates depends on several factors, including your driving history, location, and insurer. Minor violations may raise premiums by a few cents for every dollar. For example, if you paid $100 per month before the ticket, you may pay around $10 more per month afterward.
There are a few ways to reduce insurance costs after a ticket. You can compare car insurance quotes from different companies to find a cheaper policy. Additionally, signing up for a usage-based telematics program can help reduce costs if you maintain safe driving habits.
The length of time a ticket stays on your record varies by state. For example, in New York, a speeding ticket stays on your record for up to four years, while a DUI stays on your record for 15 years.
No, not all traffic tickets affect insurance rates. Non-moving violations, such as parking tickets, generally do not impact insurance rates. However, more serious violations, such as hit-and-run and DUIs, can result in significant rate increases.
