If you’ve been caught speeding by a camera, you’re probably wondering if your car insurance rates will go up. The good news is that in most cases, a speed camera ticket won’t have an impact on your car insurance rates. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, so it’s important to check with your insurer to be sure. Read on to learn more about how speed camera tickets can affect your car insurance.
What Is a Speed Camera Ticket and How Much Does It Cost?
A speed camera ticket is a type of citation for violating the speed limit in a particular area and is usually issued by an enforcement officer, or sometimes automatically by certain cameras. Depending on where you are when you get caught speeding, the cost of a speed camera ticket can vary greatly.
Generally, price ranges from a low of $50 to upwards of $1000 depending on how fast you were going and how serious the violation was. Furthermore, points may be added to your traffic record which can result in additional monetary costs associated with insurance premiums.
How Does a Speeding Ticket Affect Your Car Insurance Rates?
Getting a speeding ticket can have many implications beyond the fine you may be required to pay. It can also cause your car insurance rates to increase significantly. In most cases, an infraction as small as five mph over the speed limit will have an effect on your car insurance premium. Insurance companies view these types of violations as high-risk behaviour, especially when considering whether or not to offer you coverage or renew an already existing policy.
Moreover, if there is a pattern of reckless driving, your premiums can be drastically increased or you may even be denied coverage entirely. When driving, it is important to be mindful of the law and abide by posted speed limits in order to minimize any potential increases in car insurance rates after receiving a speeding ticket.
Is There a Way to Avoid an Increase in Your Car Insurance Rates After Getting a Speeding Ticket?
Receiving a speeding ticket can be an expensive and damaging experience, with many drivers concerned that their car insurance rates could increase due to the citation. The good news is that there may be ways to avoid or at least limit the effects on your insurance premiums. Some insurance providers offer an “accident forgiveness” program, where they decide not to increase rates after a first offense.
Additionally, opting for defensive driver courses or traffic school courses often results in the dismissal of points against your license and no insurance rate hikes. Though these options won’t always guarantee a discount, it’s certainly worth considering as a way of avoiding from any drastic increases in your insurance costs down the line.
If You Have Already Gotten a Speeding Ticket, What Can You Do to Minimize the Impact on Your Car Insurance Rates?
If you’ve already received a speeding ticket, there are a few steps you can take to minimize the impact that it has on your car insurance rates. Increasing your deductible can help lower your premium – if you choose to increase it, make sure you have enough money set aside in case of an emergency. Being more aware of consequences and staying on top of any new developments in road safety is important because insurers will see that you are making an effort to become a safer driver.
You might also inquire with multiple providers and compare rates to get the best deal available; if they see that other companies offer better options, many insurers will be willing to match the rate or offer something close. Finally, taking a defensive driving course could help prove to your insurer that you take safe driving seriously and are invested in becoming a more responsible driver.
About Us
Speed camera tickets are costly, but the resulting hike in your car insurance rates doesn’t have to be. There are ways to avoid an increase, or at least minimize the impact, and we’ve outlined them for you here. If you have any questions or need help finding the best car insurance rate for your situation, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re always happy to help. Youngs Insurance Brokers Burlington Inc. can be your one-stop destination!
We are a private insurance broker company that helps clients pick the most appropriate insurance policies for themselves. Our experienced insurance specialists will help you navigate through your insurance alternatives and make you understand your purview of coverage from all perspectives.
Reach out to us at 1(905) 335-6925 for a free estimate.
