A speeding ticket usually stays on your driving record for three to five years, depending on the state.
During this time, the ticket may also add points to your license, and accumulating too many points could affect your driving privileges. In addition, a speeding ticket can increase your car insurance rates, typically for up to three years.
Does a speeding ticket always raise insurance?
A speeding ticket does not always raise your insurance rates, but it often does. Whether or not your premium increases depends on several factors, including your driving history, the severity of the offense, your insurance company and the state you live in. For example, if it’s your first violation and you have a clean driving record, your insurer may overlook it and not increase your premiums.
However, multiple infractions are more likely to result in a noticeable rate hike. Insurance companies use your driving behavior to assess risk, and a speeding ticket can be seen as an indicator of risky driving, potentially leading to higher premiums.
Can I get a speeding ticket removed from my record?
Depending on the state laws and the circumstances surrounding the violation, you may be able to get a speeding ticket removed from your driving record.
- Attend traffic school: Many states offer a defensive driving or traffic school program. If you complete the course, the ticket might be dismissed or points may not be added to your record.
- Fight the ticket in court: You can contest the ticket in court by pleading not guilty. If you successfully argue your case, the judge may dismiss the ticket. Sometimes, the charge can be reduced to a non-moving violation, reducing the impact on your driving record and insurance rates.
- Request a deferral: A deferral postpones processing your ticket to a later date. This delay can prevent the violation from appearing on your driving record immediately, which may help keep your insurance rates from increasing.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor: If you appear in court, you can negotiate a plea deal for a lesser offense. For example, a speeding ticket could be downgraded to a non-moving violation that doesn’t carry points.
Most options are available before you pay the ticket or plead guilty. Once the ticket is paid, it’s typically added to your record, impacting your premiums.
Can I lower my rate while a speeding ticket is still on record?
It is possible to lower your car insurance rate even if a speeding ticket is still on your record, but you’ll have to make an effort to reduce the impact of the violation.
- Shop around for better rates: Not all insurance companies treat speeding tickets the same way. Some may increase your rates, while others may be more forgiving, especially if it’s your first offense.
- Take a defensive driving course: In many states, completing an approved defensive driving course can reduce points on your license.
- Increase your deductible: Raising your deductible can lower your monthly premium, but make sure you can afford the higher deductible in case of a claim.
- Drive safely: Insurers often examine your driving history when determining your insurance rate. Staying ticket-free after your violation shows that you’re a responsible driver and may help you get lower rates.
A speeding ticket can increase your insurance, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck paying more forever. You can get lower rates with a few smart moves, such as shopping around and taking advantage of discounts.
Final thoughts
Getting a speeding ticket isn’t the end of the world, but ignoring it is a bad call. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce its impact and potentially lower your insurance rates. If your current insurer raises your premiums after the violation, you can shop around for more affordable coverage.
See our guide on how long different tickets stay on your driving record
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