Kathleens Insurance Advice

Insurance rates are based on a number of factors, the most important of which is your driving records. The number of accidents, speeding tickets and traffic violations on your record will directly impact the rates you pay for auto insurance. In this article we’ll give you the details on how your driving record will be scored and what you can do to minimize negative marks on your driving record.

How Your Record is Scored
There are two basic ways that your driving record will be scored, based on the state you live in.

• Method One – A point is added to your record for each moving violation. You will receive two points if you were excessively over the speed limit. Licenses get suspended when a driver gets 4 points in a single year, 6 points in two years or 8 points in three years.
• Method Two – Minor infractions are only given one point. Three to five points are given for accidents and more serious infractions. With this method licenses are typically suspended if you receive more than 12 points over three years.

Check with your Department of Motor Vehicles to find out which method your state uses. You can also get a report on how many points currently exist on yoru record.

How Rates are Impacted
Many insurance companies will allow up to one point every two to three years. Other insurance companies are more strict. Check with your insurance provider to see what their policies are and how additional points may impact your insurance rates. The more points you have, the more expensive your premiums will be. Accidents will also raise your rates – sometimes up to 30%. The best way to keep rates down is to keep your driving record clean.

Avoid Driving Record Points
One of the easiest ways to keep points off your record is to not get them in the first place. That said, if you do get a ticket there are a few things you can do:

1. Contest the moving violation. You can present your case in traffic court. It may even be worth hiring an attorney to represent you if you’re in danger of having your license suspended.
2. Attend traffic school. Some states allow offenders to attend traffic school in addition to paying their fines. If you successfully complete the course and do not have any more violations for a certain period of time (usually at least 2 years) then the point will not appear on your record and will not impact your insurance costs.
3. Attend a driving school. Some states will allow you to knock points off of your record by attending a school. Unlike traffic school which is a state school, these driving schools are private. The benefit of attending a defensive driving class is the reduction in a point or so from your record. Check with your state to see if this program is something it offers.

In addition to keeping your premiums low by having a good driving record, you can actually qualify for discounts if you have no points on your record for at least 3 years. There are financial benefits to being a safe driver, so be sure to follow posted speed limits.