Texting while driving significantly increases the risk of a crash, so insurance companies treat it as a serious violation. A citation for this behavior signals risky driving habits to insurers and thus can lead to higher insurance premiums.
Learn the reasons behind these rate hikes, how insurers assess risk and what drivers can do to avoid a texting ticket.
Why a texting while driving ticket raises your rates
A texting while driving ticket raises your car insurance rates because it signals to your insurance company that you’re taking risks behind the wheel. Insurance companies look at your driving record to determine how likely you are to get into an accident. So, if you’re caught texting while driving, it tells them you might not be paying full attention on the road, and distracted driving is one of the top causes of crashes.
From the insurer’s point of view, that makes you a higher risk to insure. To cover that extra risk, they often raise your premium. Even one ticket can noticeably impact how much you pay for car insurance.
How long will a texting while driving ticket affect my insurance?
A texting while driving ticket can affect car insurance rates for three to five years, depending on where you live and your insurance company’s policies.
Most insurers check your driving record when it’s time to renew your policy, and a violation like this might impact your insurance premiums.
The good news is that your rates can decrease if you keep a clean driving record after that and avoid additional tickets or accidents. Some insurance companies might even offer discounts for safe driving after a while, so it’s worth being careful and staying focused behind the wheel.
Is a texting ticket considered a major violation?
A texting ticket is not considered a major violation, but can still have consequences.
In most states, texting while driving is classified as a traffic infraction or a minor violation, especially for a first offense. However, the impact can vary depending on state laws, repeat offenses and the circumstances around the violation.
If texting while driving leads to an accident or injury, it may be treated as a major violation or even considered reckless driving. Even without an accident, a texting ticket can result in fines, license points and higher insurance premiums.
How to avoid texting while driving tickets
To avoid getting a texting-while-driving ticket, the best approach is to reduce distractions before you hit the road. You can follow these tips:
- Put your phone on Do Not Disturb: Most smartphones have a driving mode that silences notifications and auto-replies to texts. Use it every time you drive.
- Use hands-free options: If you need to communicate, use voice commands or a hands-free setup like Bluetooth.
- Plan ahead: If you’re using your phone for navigation or music, set everything up before driving so you won’t be tempted to use the phone while on the road.
- Pull over if it’s urgent: If you must read or send a message, find a safe place to pull over before using your phone.
Staying focused while driving doesn’t just help you avoid tickets – it keeps you and everyone else on the road safe.
Final thoughts
Texting while driving might seem harmless, but it can affect your driving record. While one ticket doesn’t make you a bad driver, it does increase your risk. Staying focused on the road and avoiding distractions can help keep your rates from going up and, most importantly, keep you and others safe.
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