Does a speeding ticket raise your car insurance?

Whether you’ve just received a speeding ticket or you’re simply curious, you might be wondering: Will this impact my car insurance rate? At American Family Insurance, we know that life on the road comes with surprises — and we’re here to help you understand how a ticket could affect your auto insurance rate, and what you can do to keep your dreams moving forward.

How American Family views speeding tickets

Every insurance company handles speeding tickets a little differently. At American Family, your rate may be affected by a ticket, but it depends on several factors, like your driving history, the severity of the violation, and your state’s regulations.  

Some drivers may see a rate change after one ticket, while others may not notice an impact unless there’s a pattern of violations. The best way to know? Connect with your American Family agent. They’ll review your policy and help you understand what to expect. 

What happens after you get a speeding ticket?

After getting a speeding ticket, you typically have a few options: 

• Pay the ticket in full. This is the most straightforward route, but it usually means points on your Motor Vehicle Report (MVR), which can affect your insurance rate.
• Attend driving school. In some states, you may be able to remove points or even clear the charge by completing a defensive driving course.  
• Fight the ticket. Contesting the ticket in court could reduce your fine or clear the violation from your record. 

The impact of multiple tickets

Insurance companies, including American Family, look for patterns. Multiple moving violations or speeding tickets can signal higher risk, which may lead to higher premiums. Keeping your driving record clean is the best way to keep your rates low. 

Not all tickets are created equal 

Minor infractions, like going a few miles over the speed limit, might not impact your rate as much as major violations, such as reckless driving or DUI. If you have a strong history of safe driving, you may even qualify for forgiveness on your first minor ticket.  

Out-of-state tickets count too 

Traveling doesn’t mean you’re off the hook. Most states share information about traffic violations, so an out-of-state ticket can still show up on your driving record and potentially affect your insurance rate.  

How long does a ticket affect your insurance?

The length of time a ticket impacts your rate depends on your state’s point system, your driving history, and your specific policy. Typically, your insurer will review your motor vehicle record at renewal. If there are new points or violations, your premium may increase. The amount depends on the severity of the violation and your prior record. 

Can you erase a ticket from your record?

Some states allow you to take a defensive driving course or attend traffic school to remove a ticket from your record. Check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles and talk with your American Family agent for guidance.  

Other types of tickets

It’s not just speeding tickets that can affect your insurance. Other moving violations — like running a red light, failing to yield, or distracted driving—can also impact your rate. The more serious the violation, the greater the potential effect. 

Savings based on your driving habits

The best way to keep your car insurance rates low is to drive safely. A clean driving record is something to be proud of — and it could help you qualify for discounts. Want to take it a step further? Enroll in our DriveMyWay program to track your driving habits or our MilesMyWay option if you’re a low-mileage driver, and you could earn additional savings on your car insurance. 

Have questions? We’re here to help.

If you’d like to learn more about your insurance policy and how a speeding ticket could affect your rates, connect with your American Family Insurance agent. They’re happy to answer your questions and help you understand your options. 

This information represents only a brief description of coverages, is not part of your policy, and is not a promise or guarantee of coverage. If there is any conflict between this information and your policy, the provisions of the policy will prevail. Insurance policy terms and conditions may apply. Exclusions may apply to policies, endorsements, or riders. Coverage may vary by state and may be subject to change. Some products are not available in every state. Please read your policy and contact your agent for assistance. 

Discount, savings and product eligibility varies based on the way you purchase insurance, by state, property type and policy form. Discounts may not apply to all coverages on an auto or home policy. Exclusions may apply. 

DriveMyWay plans and discounts may vary by state. Rate will vary based on driving behavior. Unsafe driving behaviors may increase your rate. Product eligibility will vary by state, vehicle type, policy form and company underwriting the auto policy. Some restrictions may apply. The DriveMyWay rate factor applies only to certain coverages. Please speak with your agent for details.