How Red Light Tickets Affect Your Auto Insurance

Running a red light can have several consequences, including fines, points on your driver's license, and an increase in your auto insurance rates. While the impact of a red light ticket on your insurance may vary depending on your state and insurer, it's important to understand how it can affect your overall costs and driving record. In this paragraph, we will explore the potential implications of a red light ticket on your auto insurance and what you can expect in terms of financial and legal consequences.

How long do points stay on your license?

The length of time that points remain on your license varies depending on where you live. In West Virginia, points stay on your license for 2 years. After this period, the points will no longer count towards a license suspension or factor into your insurance rates. In California, points stay on your license for at least 3 years. The length of time that a red light ticket stays on your record also varies by state but is usually 3-5 years. In New York, a red light ticket can stay on your record for anywhere from 3 to 15 years.

How to fight a ticket

A red light ticket can have a significant impact on your auto insurance, with rates increasing by around 24% on average. It can also add points to your driving record, which can further affect your insurance premiums. However, there are steps you can take to fight a red light ticket and potentially minimize its impact on your insurance. Here are some detailed instructions on how to go about it:

Verify your driving record: If you already have moving violations, parking tickets, accidents, or other offenses on your record from the past three years, you may not be eligible to argue a red light violation. A clean driving record, on the other hand, indicates that you're a competent driver who made a single mistake, which can work in your favor.

Understand traffic laws: Educate yourself about traffic laws and regulations. For instance, if you entered an intersection when the light was yellow and it turned red while you were in the middle of it, you are not in violation of the law. Knowing these laws will help you build a strong case for yourself in court.

Review the evidence: Request photographs or videos of the incident from the relevant law enforcement agency. Examine the images and videos carefully to determine if there is clear evidence of a violation. Sometimes, red light camera systems and reviewers make mistakes, and you can use this to your advantage to get the ticket dismissed.

Check the timing of the yellow light: California law, for example, mandates a minimum duration for yellow lights before they turn red. If you recall the yellow light being unusually brief, time the yellow light interval yourself using a stopwatch and compare it to the required minimum time. If the yellow light interval is shorter than it should be, you may have a valid defense against your red light ticket.

Ensure the presence of warning signs: Visit the intersection where the incident occurred and check for warning signs. There should be a sign posted within 200 feet of the intersection, clearly visible to oncoming traffic, indicating the use of an automatic enforcement system. If there are no warning signs or if they are not clearly visible, this can be grounds for disputing your ticket.

Examine the maintenance records: Automatic enforcement systems are required by law to be regularly calibrated and inspected. Request maintenance records from the law enforcement agency to verify that the red light camera was properly inspected and calibrated at the time of the incident. If it wasn't, this can be a basis for getting your ticket dismissed.

Plead not guilty: At your arraignment, enter a plea of "not guilty" if you intend to fight the ticket. This will set a date for your trial, where you will have the opportunity to present your case and evidence to the judge.

Organize your documents and evidence: Gather all the necessary documents and evidence, such as photos, videos, traffic laws, maintenance records, etc., to support your case. If there are witnesses who can testify on your behalf, bring them along to court as well.

Attend your trial and present your case: Dress appropriately and behave respectfully in court. Address the judge as "Your Honor" and present your case in a logical, coherent, and factual manner. Avoid any emotional pleas, as they are unlikely to help your case.

Consider a trial by written declaration: If you prefer not to appear in court, some jurisdictions offer the option of a trial by written declaration, where you submit your defense in writing. However, you may be required to pay the full bail amount upfront, which will be refunded if you are found not guilty.

Consult an attorney: If you want additional support or if your case is particularly complex, consider hiring an attorney who specializes in traffic law and has experience with red light ticket cases. They can guide you through the legal process and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

Remember, each case is unique, and the specific steps may vary depending on your location and the circumstances of the violation. Always review the relevant traffic laws and regulations for your area to ensure you understand your rights and options for disputing a red light ticket.

How to lower your insurance costs

Running a red light will likely add points to your driving record and increase your insurance rates. The exact increase depends on the state and insurance company. For instance, State Farm might increase your rates by 52%, whereas Progressive could raise them by 101%. On the other hand, drivers in North Carolina experience a 40% hike in their premiums, whereas in New York, the red light ticket insurance increase is only 6%.

• Have a good driving record: One of the best ways to keep your auto insurance costs down is to maintain a good driving record. Avoid speeding, getting into accidents, and other driving incidents.
• Ask for higher deductibles: Deductibles are what you pay before your insurance policy kicks in. By requesting higher deductibles, you can lower your costs substantially. Just be sure you can afford to pay the deductible in case of an accident.
• Buy your homeowners and auto coverage from the same insurer: Many insurers will give you a discount if you buy two or more types of insurance from them.
• Maintain a good credit record: Establishing a solid credit history can cut your insurance costs. Most insurers use credit information to price auto insurance policies. Research shows that people who effectively manage their credit have fewer claims.
• Take advantage of low-mileage discounts: Some companies offer discounts to motorists who drive fewer miles per year. This can include drivers who carpool, work from home, or use public transportation.
• Ask about group insurance: Some companies offer reductions to drivers who get insurance through a group plan from their employers, professional or alumni groups, or other associations.
• Seek out other discounts: Companies offer discounts to policyholders who have not had any accidents or moving violations for several years. You may also get a discount if you take a defensive driving course.
• Shop around for a lower rate: Insurance companies charge different rates for the same coverage. Finding the company that is best for the kind of driver you are can save you a lot of money. Always get three or more quotes to compare.
• Search for discounts: Every major insurer gives discounts based on your driving history, vehicle features, and policy choices. For example, many insurers offer discounts for going paperless, paying online, or agreeing to automated payments.
• Reduce your coverage: If you own an old car that isn't worth very much, you might consider dropping collision and comprehensive coverage. Make sure you are still complying with your state's insurance laws and any coverage requirements from your lender or lessor.
• Buy an insurance-friendly car: Expensive cars, sports cars, and vehicles with high theft rates are more expensive to insure. Before buying a new car, get an insurance quote to ensure the cost of coverage fits your budget.

How to avoid higher insurance prices

Getting a ticket for running a red light can be stressful, especially when you think about the potential impact on your auto insurance premiums. While a red light ticket is considered a moving violation that can result in points on your driver's license and higher insurance rates, there are several strategies you can employ to minimise or avoid these increases.

Understand the Impact of a Red Light Ticket

Firstly, it's important to understand how a red light ticket affects your insurance. On average, car insurance rates go up by around 23% after a red light ticket, but this can vary depending on your state and insurance company. For example, in North Carolina, rates increase by 40%, while in New York, they only go up by 6%. Additionally, the length of time a red light ticket stays on your record differs by state, typically ranging from three to five years.

Shop Around for Insurance

One effective way to avoid higher insurance prices is to shop around for a new insurance provider. Insurance rates can vary significantly from one company to another, so by comparing quotes from multiple insurers, you may find a more favourable rate, even with a red light ticket on your record.

Consider a Usage-Based Insurance Program

Usage-based insurance programs, also known as pay-per-mile insurance, can be a good option for drivers with a red light ticket. With this type of program, you pay for insurance based on the amount you drive, which can help offset the increased rates resulting from the violation.

Take Advantage of Defensive Driving Courses

Many states offer defensive driving courses that can help reduce the impact of a red light ticket on your insurance rates. Completing such a course may result in a reduction of the fine and the removal of points from your driving record. In some cases, insurance companies offer discounts for completing these courses.

Review Available Discounts with Your Insurer

Even if you decide to stay with your current insurance provider, it's worth reviewing the discounts they offer. Many insurers provide various discounts, such as pay-in-full or defensive driving discounts, which can help lower your premium.

Improve Your Driving Record

Your driving record plays a crucial role in determining your insurance rates. Maintaining a good driving record by driving safely, obeying traffic laws, and avoiding accidents can help prevent you from being considered a high-risk driver, which may lead to lower insurance rates.

Contest the Ticket

In some cases, you may be able to contest the red light ticket in court. By presenting your case to a judge, you may have the penalty reduced or dismissed, which can help minimise the impact on your insurance premiums.

Switch to an Insurer with Ticket Forgiveness

Some insurance companies offer ticket forgiveness programs or accident forgiveness coverage, which may prevent your rates from increasing after a red light ticket. State Farm and Geico are known for their ticket forgiveness policies, with rates not increasing significantly after a red light violation.

Remember, the impact of a red light ticket on your insurance may depend on various factors, including your state, the number of points on your driving record, and the specific policies of your insurance company. By being proactive and exploring these options, you can take control of your insurance costs and avoid higher prices.

How to get a ticket dismissed

Getting a ticket dismissed can save you from the stress of having to pay fines and court costs. It can also prevent your auto insurance premiums from increasing. Here are some ways to get a ticket dismissed:

Trial by Written Declaration

This method is fast, easy, and can be done entirely online. For a one-time fee, you can use Trial by Written Declaration to get your ticket dismissed, avoid points on your license, and keep your insurance premiums from increasing. This process involves submitting a written defense, rather than making a verbal statement in court.

Contest the Ticket

In many places, you have the right to contest a ticket. By going to court, you may be able to get your ticket dismissed, which would prevent it from appearing on your driving record or affecting your insurance. If the officer who issued the ticket doesn't show up to the hearing, there's a chance your ticket will be dismissed.

Plea Bargain

Even if you are guilty of a moving violation, you may be able to plead guilty to a non-moving violation instead. A non-moving violation is less likely to cause issues with your employment and usually doesn't result in points on your license.

Request a Dismissal

You can write a letter to the prosecutor explaining why you believe you were not at fault and requesting that your ticket be dismissed. If you feel you were pulled over unfairly or that the officer made a mistake, be sure to mention this.

Take a Defensive Driving Course

In some cases, completing a defensive driving course can result in a reduction of your fine and the removal of points from your driving record. This option may be available to you as part of a plea agreement or as a way to reduce the number of points on your record.

Provide Evidence

If you have evidence that you were not at fault, such as dashcam footage or GPS data, be sure to present it in court. This can increase your chances of getting the ticket dismissed.

Dress Professionally and Be Respectful

When appearing in court, it's important to make a good impression on the judge. Dress professionally, be courteous, and refrain from angry outbursts. Treating court officials with respect can improve your chances of getting the ticket dismissed.

Consult a Lawyer

Navigating the legal system can be challenging, and a lawyer can provide valuable guidance. A lawyer can help you gather evidence, prepare your defense, and present your case in court. They can also review the facts of your case and advise you on the best course of action.

Frequently asked questions