Moving Violations And Auto Insurance Rates

Reader’s Question:

I got a ticket here in Indiana because of failure to properly use the restraints on my child’s car seat, how would this affect my auto insurance?

Carl H.

Fort Wayne, IN

Definitely, any kind of moving violations or driving offenses can cause your auto insurance rates there in Indiana to significantly increase. Some might be surprised that this is considered a violation, but it is, just as beating a red light, not wearing a seatbelt, speeding and reckless driving are considered to be moving violations. Even Non-Moving violations such as driving with an expired registration, suspended license, parking tickets and lack of insurance coverage would definitely cause an auto insurance company to charge you higher rates.

The amount of increase on your premiums would depend on your insurance carrier, so it would be difficult to make accurate comparisons depending on the violation. It would be wise to avoid getting further violations in the future as this would only cause your rates to escalate further.

You may be glad to know that there are still ways to compensate for higher auto insurance rates. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Sign up for Defensive driving lessons. Not only would you pick up on valuable skills to stay safe while on the road, you would also be entitled to discounts on your policy.

2. Increasing your auto insurance deductible will help bring down your regular premiums.

3. You will spend less on auto insurance if you consider driving an older, less expensive, or second-hand vehicle. You can even drop collision coverage all-together to save you more money on premiums.