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Speeding Tickets Can Raise Your Rates – Here’s What You Can Do

October 7, 2024

Highway

States with the highest percentage of drivers with speeding tickets on record (Source: Insurify 2024)

  1. North Dakota
  2. Wisconsin
  3. Ohio
  4. Iowa
  5. Idaho

 

Wisconsin Ranks High for Speeding Tickets 

At Robertson Ryan Insurance, headquartered in Milwaukee, WI, we care about how speeding tickets impact auto insurance premiums.  Wisconsin has the second-highest percentage of drivers with speeding tickets in the U.S. The rate is nearly double the national average, with ticket numbers rising sharply in recent years. This is a helpful reminder to watch your speeds and use cruise control.

 

How Much Does a Speeding Ticket Raise Insurance Rates?  And For How Long?

On average, a speeding ticket causes a 24% rise in insurance premiums, or around $380 annually, according to Forbes. The increase can last several years, depending on your state’s laws and your driving history.

Factors that affect how much your rate will increase include:

  • Previous violations or accidents
  • Whether it’s your first ticket
  • How fast you were driving over the limit

How Long Will a Speeding Ticket Affect My Insurance?

  • Speeding tickets usually impact insurance rates for three to five years, depending on the state.
  • Some insurers reduce surcharges over time if no further violations occur during that period.

 

Ways to Lower Insurance After a Ticket 

If a speeding ticket increases your rate, here are a few ways to lower it:

  • Take a safe driving course: This may remove points or keep the ticket off your record.
  • Ask for discounts: You might still qualify for savings like bundling home and auto policies or paying your premium in full.

Some insurers may forgive minor violations, like speeding under 10 mph over the limit, though rules vary by state.

 

What to Do After a Speeding Ticket 

You typically have three options after getting a ticket:

  1. Pay the fine: This admits guilt and may raise your rates.
  2. Contest the ticket: If successful, it won’t appear on your record, avoiding a rate hike.
  3. Do nothing: Ignoring the ticket can lead to late fees or even a suspended license.

 

How Do Insurers Find Out About My Ticket? 

After receiving a ticket, the court notifies the DMV, which updates your driving record. Insurance companies check this record before your policy renews. Rates increase only at renewal, so wait until your policy is a month or two away from renewal and then have your Robertson Ryan Agent shop around for new quotes on your behalf.

Need help or a new agent? Contact us at Robertson Ryan Insurance, and stay safe on the roads!