If you’ve ever had a speeding ticket, you’ve probably debated if it’s worth going to traffic school to avoid a point on your driving record. A point counts as a violation, and while this may sound inconsequential, it will remain on your record for years and must be disclosed to car insurance companies, which is used in determining your price. That alone can increase your insurance cost significantly. Here are some things to consider.
The Infraction
Although each state’s laws vary on how it issues “points” (bad) on your driving record, most insurance companies will likely permit one moving violation every 3-5 years without classifying you as a high-risk driver. Most citations will be reported to your insurance company within about 60 days. Then, when your policy is set to renew, your rates may go up. Review your insurance policy to see whether going to traffic school will eliminate the offense.
Online Traffic School
If you need to appear in court, often the judge will allow you attend a traffic school to reduce the number of points on your record once every 18 months. The bad news: you cannot attend traffic school if you were traveling in excess of 30 mph over the posted speed limit. The good news: a certificate from a traffic school can lower your points if you’ve been issued a speeding ticket for under 30 mph over the limit! Low or no points could mean little to no impact on your insurance rates. This can vary both by state and insurance company, but you can a state accredited online traffic school can potentially reduce the impact of that speeding ticket on your premium.
What if I haven’t done anything wrong (i.e., received a speeding ticket) and attend an online traffic school?
There are benefits to taking an online traffic course, even if you have done nothing wrong as a driver. For one, you will be sharpening your memory. For drivers 55 or older, you may be required by state law to complete a mature driver course. To qualify for a discount, you’ll need to take the exam every three years.
Be certain to send in all necessary proof that you’ve completed traffic school. Some courts will only dismiss the offense once they’ve received proof. Sitting in a classroom or working tediously online to attend traffic school is only good if you don’t forget to send in proof to the court!
Finally, if your insurance rates change because of that need for speed or for any other reason, visit us at www.answerfinancial.com to compare personalized quotes on insurance.
