How does online traffic school affect my insurance rates?
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 can remain on your record for several 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) or violations 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 on your driving record.
Online Traffic School
If you need to appear in court, the judge may allow you to attend a traffic school to reduce the number of points on your records. Low or no points could mean little to no impact on your insurance rates. This can vary both by state and insurance company, 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, some states allow you to voluntary complete a mature driver course for an insurance discount. To qualify for a discount in Florida, you’ll need to take the exam every three years. 1
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 AnswerFinancial.com to compare personalized quotes on insurance.
October 12, 2023
Sources:
- American Safety Institute, “6-Hour Mature Driver Course in Florida,” https://americansafetyinstitute.com/6-hour-mature-driver-course/
Traffic school seems like a good option if an individual doesn’t want so many points on their record. I have known a couple friends who have opted for traffic school in order to prevent them from an awful driving record. The idea that it can possibly not affect your insurance rates is definitely appealing! No one wants to spend more on their monthly insurance bills!