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Drivers with traffic violations in 2025 see their auto insurance premiums jump by 53% on average. In some states, like North Carolina, the increase can reach as high as 146% for violations and dangerous driving12.
Even a single minor violation can raise rates by up to 70%. Certain violations, like driving with a suspended license or reckless driving, can push premiums up by 62–90% or more, depending on location and insurer2.
Geography matters—a seatbelt ticket in California may raise rates by 29%, while in Maine it might have no effect2.
Violation | Avg. Premium Increase (%) | Avg. Dollar Increase ($) |
---|---|---|
Hit and run | 82.2% | $1,209 |
Refusing a breathalyzer test | 74.1% | $1,089 |
DUI | 73.9% | $1,086 |
Racing | 73.7% | $1,084 |
Reckless driving | 70.4% | $1,034 |
Driving with suspended license | 62.4% | $918 |
At-fault accident | 42% | $617 |
Driving with open container | 34.9% | $513 |
Operating vehicle w/o permission | 32.8% | $482 |
Passing stopped school bus | 27% | $398 |
Source: Zebra.***, Bankrate, 2025 auto insurance analytics2.
Insurers view traffic violations as indicators of risky behavior, increasing the likelihood of future claims3.
Major violations (DUI, reckless driving, hit and run) trigger the steepest hikes. Minor violations (speeding, failure to signal) still raise rates, especially if repeated43.
Even a single ticket can cause you to lose safe driver discounts, further increasing your premium56.
Most violations remain on your record for 3–5 years. Serious offenses like DUI may impact rates for a decade or more3.
Accumulating more infractions compounds the effect, making insurance even more expensive and, in some cases, leading to policy cancellation3.
Insurers weigh violations differently. Comparing quotes can help you find a provider more forgiving of your record52.
Take a Defensive Driving Course: Many insurers offer discounts for completing an approved safe driving course, which can offset some of the premium increase78.
Consider Usage-Based Insurance: Enroll in telematics or usage-based programs (like Progressive Snapshot or State Farm Drive Safe & Save). Safe driving habits tracked by these programs can earn you discounts of 10–30% or more9.
Avoid further violations. Over time, a clean driving history will help reduce your rates as old infractions fall off your record53.
Increase Deductibles or Adjust Coverage: Raising your deductible or dropping optional coverages (if appropriate) can lower your premium, but be sure you can afford the out-of-pocket cost if you have a claim107.
Combining auto with home or renters insurance can unlock additional discounts, helping to offset higher rates from violations7.
If you believe a violation was issued in error, contest it in court. A dismissed ticket may not impact your insurance5.
Driving violations in 2025 can dramatically increase your auto insurance premiums—often by more than 50% for a single incident.
Major offenses like DUI, reckless driving, and hit-and-run carry the steepest penalties, but even minor tickets add up.
Shopping around, taking a defensive driving course, enrolling in telematics programs, and maintaining a clean record are the most effective ways to reduce your rates after a violation.
Staying vigilant about your driving habits and proactive about your insurance options is the best way to keep your premiums affordable in 2025.
© 2025 Created by Yuri Khrushch.
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