The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that there were 9,378 automobile fatalities in 2018 in which at least one of the drivers was speeding. Though speeding is usually treated as a misdemeanor in Georgia, speeding is taken seriously and fines increase as the severity of the speeding increases.
The premiums you pay to insure your car can be affected by speeding tickets. According to Bankrate’s 2021 study on annual premiums, a speeding ticket can increase the cost of Georgia car insurance by 26%.
What is the cost of a Georgia speeding ticket?
The fine for a speeding ticket in Georgia varies depending on a number of factors, including the location of the violation and the severity of the speeding. The following are the usual fines for first-time speeders:
- $5 for driving at least five mph faster than the limit.
- $25 for driving at or above five mph, but not below ten mph.
- $100 for driving over ten mph, but under 14 mph.
- $125 for driving over 14 mph, but under the limit of 19 mph
- $150 for driving at or above 19 mph, but not below 24 mph.
- $500 for driving at or above 24 mph, but not below 34 mph.
These base fines can be increased by a variety of “aggravating” situations. Speeding in highway construction zones can result in a $2,000 fine, and up to 12 months imprisonment. Georgia also imposes a “super speeder” fine of $200 on top of the base fine for drivers exceeding a speed of 85 miles per hour.
Points issued in Georgia for traffic violations can have a direct impact on insurance premiums to varying degrees. Two to six points can be awarded to drivers who are cited for speeding in excess of 15 mph.
How does a speeding ticket affect your Georgia car insurance?
In addition to fines and points, in Georgia, it is likely that a speeding ticket will increase the premiums paid for auto insurance. Statistically, males have been determined to be higher risk drivers than women. Males are more likely to pay higher premiums for car insurance. This is reflected in the chart below.
Average premium for full coverage annually
It is important to observe Georgia’s speed limits, as shown above. While there are ways to potentially limit this increase with discounts and alternative coverage with other good car insurance companies, this effort itself can be costly and time consuming.
How to reduce your car insurance following a Georgia speeding ticket
It can be very frustrating to discover that one negligent act behind the wheel can lead to a substantial increase in Georgia’s car insurance premiums. Don’t despair, there are many steps you can take to soften the blow and decrease the premium increase. You may discover other ways to save money on your car insurance.
Get estimates from other car insurance providers
Each auto insurance company in Georgia uses a different set underwriting and rating factors to determine premiums. It’s always a good idea to compare multiple car insurance quotes. However, if you have been cited for speeding, the premium increases can vary significantly between carriers.
Georgia car insurance company average annual full coverage premium
When shopping for the best coverage, don’t forget about other important factors. To understand the financial rating of companies and their ability to pay claims, customer reviews and coverage options, research online and talk with agents.
Look for discounts
Make sure that you are taking advantage of any discounts offered by your current carrier before shopping for coverage. Auto insurance companies that also offer homeowners coverage may offer a “bundling discount” if you have both your auto and home covered by the company. There are many others based upon your age, type of vehicle and overall driving history.
Modify existing coverages
Georgia has no exemption from the minimum auto liability requirements that all states require drivers to keep. However, there may be ways to modify collision or comprehensive coverage for older vehicles that aren’t subject to liens. If the vehicle is totaled, you won’t likely replace it anyway. You may also be able increase your deductibles to lower premiums.
Additional speeding ticket considerations
In Georgia, you always have the right to appear in court and contest a speeding ticket. You can also pay your fine online to avoid going to court.
Georgia has a point system which ranges from two to six points added to your driver’s license for certain traffic violations. Speeding violations that exceed the limit of 15 miles per hour are exempt from points. But, serious offenders will be punished. Drivers who receive 15 points within a 24-month period could have their driver’s license suspended.
Questions frequently asked
Which insurance company is best for drivers who have been cited for speeding?
There is no one car insurance company that is right for everyone. Each driver’s situation is different and there are discounts that may be available for some drivers. This makes it easier to get quotes from multiple top auto insurance companies to find the best coverage. These quotes can help you find the right coverage for you by comparing them.
Is speed legal?
This is a myth. Many drivers have tried to avoid speeding tickets by claiming an emergency or saying they were following heavy commuter traffic. These excuses are not legal and have been repeatedly rejected.
Do I have to inform my insurance company about a speeding ticket
Your car insurance company will most likely discover this soon. Car insurance companies may conduct periodic reviews of drivers records, where speeding tickets will be found. It is very likely that a speeding ticket will be brought to the attention of the carrier when a policy is renewed.