Mon. Dec 2nd, 2024
How Traffic Tickets Impact Your Insurance Rates
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How Traffic Tickets Impact Your Insurance Rates
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Source: Mid-Columbia Insurance

Traffic tickets in Washington directly impact your driving privileges and insurance costs, with citations potentially increasing premiums by $22 monthly for three years. The Department of Licensing processes over 2,300 traffic citations daily, making swift action essential to protect your record and wallet.

The Washington Traffic Ticket System

Washington tracks actual violations rather than using a point system. Moving violations stay on your record for five years, while insurance companies typically review them for three years. The impact reaches beyond the initial fine, with drivers facing average insurance increases of $800 over three years. Commercial drivers face stricter scrutiny, with violations visible for ten years.

Response Options and Deadlines

When facing a traffic ticket, you must respond within 30 days through one of three channels. Paying the fine admits guilt and affects your insurance. Requesting mitigation might reduce the fine but still impacts your record. Contesting the citation offers the best chance for a clean record but may require legal help.

Insurance and Rate Protection

Insurance carriers each handle traffic violations differently, considering violation type, driving history, and vehicle usage. To minimize rate impacts, consider defensive driving courses, usage-based insurance programs, or policy bundling. Many carriers offer discount programs that can help offset increases from tickets.

Protecting Your License

To maintain driving privileges, keep violations below six in any 12-month period. The Department of Licensing monitors patterns closely, and multiple tickets can trigger suspension. Maintaining active insurance and completing required programs helps protect your license status.

Getting Help

Professional assistance often proves valuable after receiving a ticket. Traffic attorneys can contest citations, while insurance agents guide coverage options. Court facilitators help with procedures, and legal aid services assist those facing financial challenges.

Next Steps

After receiving a ticket, contact your insurance agent to understand the potential rate impact and to help you make informed decisions about contesting or paying the citation. Acting within the 30-day window prevents additional penalties.

Protect Your Investment

Don’t let a traffic ticket drive up your insurance costs. Contact your insurance agent today to protect your rates and explore your options. For Washington State residents, Mid-Columbia Insurance offers specialized coverage options and bilingual agents to help you find the best rates even if you have a few tickets or accidents.

Contact Mid-Columbia Insurance at (509)783-5600 for a free quote and expert guidance.

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