Like most companies, insurance companies in California view speeding tickets in California as risky behavior. If you are cited for speeding in the Golden State, your premium will increase.
Understanding how your insurance premium could rise and what you can do to lower it may help you prepare for the consequences of a speeding ticket. To help you understand what to expect after a speeding ticket, Bankrate analyzed current premium data from Quadrant Information Services.
What is the cost of a California speeding ticket?
California speeding tickets can be very costly. You can expect to pay a fine between $35 and $1,000 depending on the circumstances.
These fines do NOT include any surcharges, assessments or fees. After a ticket, your auto insurance will likely increase and you may need to pay to reinstate it. You will also need to pay an administrative fee of $52 and a traffic school fee. These fees range between $20 to HTML45.
What does a speeding ticket do to your California car insurance?
After a speeding ticket, California drivers will likely see their auto insurance premiums rise. Below is a table that shows the average increase based on your age.
After a ticket, you may notice a higher increase in car insurance rates for older drivers. This is because younger drivers are considered high risk and tend to pay more for their car insurance.
| Age | Before speeding tickets, average annual full coverage premium | After speeding tickets, average annual full coverage premium | % Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Male 18-year-old | $6,089 | $7,295 | 20% |
| Female 18-year-old | $6,035 | $7,234 | 20% |
| Male aged 40 | $2,110 | $2,876 | 36% |
| Female aged 40 | $2,118 | $2,887 | 36% |
A speeding ticket can cause car insurance premiums to rise significantly. Driving history isn’t the only thing that can affect auto insurance premiums. The cost of your auto insurance can be affected by factors such as your age, driving record, company, and coverages. California insurance companies cannot use your ZIP code, gender, or credit score to calculate the cost of your car insurance premium. Your individual rating factors may affect the amount of your premium.
How to reduce your car insurance following a California speeding ticket
There are many ways to save, even though auto insurance premiums tend to increase after a speeding ticket. If you have a speeding violation on your record, these tips could help to lower your auto insurance premium.
Get estimates from other car insurance providers
Every car insurance agency uses its unique method to determine premiums. Speeding tickets may be charged more by some carriers than others. Comparing quotes from different insurance companies could help you to find a lower rate if your premiums rise after a speeding ticket.
| Car insurance company | Before speeding tickets, average annual full coverage premium | After speeding tickets, average annual full coverage premium | % Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Geico | $1,421 | $1,680 | 18% |
| State Farm | $1,453 | $1,688 | 16% |
| Travelers | $1,570 | $2,013 | 28% |
| Wawanesa | $1,622 | $2,308 | 42% |
| Farmers | $1,931 | $2,416 | 25% |
Premiums are the average premiums per year for full coverage for 40-year olds
You may need to look beyond average premiums when you are considering changing auto insurance company. You may be able to find the right company by reviewing customer service ratings, coverage options, discounts available, and financial strength.
Register for a Telematics Program
Insurance companies offer programs that monitor your driving habits and give you discounts. It is usually easy to enroll in such programs. After you have spoken to your company, ask them to enroll you in the program. You may also need to download an app for your mobile device or request that the company mail you a plugging device. You could get lower car insurance rates if you drive safely. Sign up and you may get a discount.
Consider ticket forgiveness programs
Many car insurance companies offer ticket forgiveness programs that waive any premium increases you might see if you are cited. To reap the benefits, however, you will need to make sure that this option is on your auto insurance policy. You may not be eligible if you have recently been convicted. You can talk to your insurance company to find out if the program is available and if it’s an option.
Additional speeding ticket considerations
You could face additional penalties if you are convicted of a traffic offense. Your driver’s license could be suspended or revoked. Your license could be suspended or revoked depending on the severity and driving record. A court appearance or hiring a lawyer may be required. You could even be sentenced to imprisonment for your ticket.
Questions frequently asked
Which insurance company is best for drivers who have been cited for speeding?
There are many top-rated car insurance companies. However, they all have different premiums and customer service scores. The best company for you will depend upon a variety of factors. Each driver will find the best company. You can compare quotes from different carriers to find the best company for you.
What will my car insurance cost after I get a speeding ticket
Your car insurance can increase by 18% to 42% depending upon your age and which insurance company you have. Your personal rating could affect how much your premium increases. Consider contacting your company to discuss discounts or checking with other insurance companies to offset the rise in your premium.
What causes my insurance to increase after I get a ticket?
Insurance is partly based on risk. Insurance companies will often increase your premiums if they believe you are more likely to cause an accident in future. Speeding tickets are generally considered risky driving behavior by insurance companies. Your premium will increase if you get a speeding ticket. It will remain elevated for three to five year, depending on the company’s guidelines.