to insurance is like a safety plan for your car. If you get into an accident, it helps cover the cost of repairs or damages. But did you know how you drive can change how much you pay for insurance? A study found that average rates after an accident can increase by $872 per year. Let’s look at how your driving record affects your auto insurance premiums. Want to know how your driving record affects what you pay and how you can save? Keep reading to learn more!
What Is a Driving Record?
A driving record is like a report card for how well you drive. It shows if you’ve been in any accidents, gotten tickets for speeding, or broken rules like running a red light or not wearing a seatbelt. Insurance companies look at this to determine how risky you are to cover. The better your driving record, the less you usually pay for car insurance!
How a Good Driving Record Lowers Your Premiums
Insurance companies consider you a safe bet if you’re a careful driver and avoid accidents and tickets. This means they think you’re less likely to get into an accident. As a reward for being responsible, they will usually charge you less. This can save you a lot of money over time!
How a Bad Driving Record Increases Your Premiums
On the other hand, if you have accidents or tickets on your driving record, insurance companies see you as a higher risk. They think you’re more likely to have another accident, which means they’ll have to pay more to cover you. Because of this, they will charge you more for insurance.
Major Violations Can Be Costly
If you get caught doing something serious like driving under the influence (DUI) or causing an accident while texting, your insurance premium can skyrocket. In some cases, it might double or even triple! Some insurance companies might refuse to cover you because they think you’re too risky.
Can You Improve Your Driving Record?
The good news is that your driving record isn’t permanent. Over time, accidents and tickets can disappear from your record, usually after about three to five years. During this time, if you drive carefully and avoid more violations, you can improve your record and lower your premiums.
Safe Driving Discounts
Many insurance companies offer discounts if you have a clean driving record. These are called safe driving discounts. Driving safely and avoiding accidents could save you money on your insurance. Some companies even have programs that track driving habits with an app and give real-time discounts for safe driving!
How to Keep Your Premiums Low?
Here are a few tips to help keep your driving record clean and your premiums low:
Follow the speed limit
Speeding tickets can quickly increase your premiums.
Avoid distractions
Don’t text or use your phone while driving.
Take a defensive driving course.
Some insurance companies will give you a discount if you take a particular driving class.
Always wear your seatbelt
Not only is it safe, but failing to wear one could lead to a ticket.
Save Money on Your Car Insurance with SFM Insurance
Want to pay less for car insurance? There are some easy ways to save! You can drive safely to avoid accidents, bundle your car insurance with other types like home insurance, or choose a higher deductible, which means paying less each month. You can also get discounts for being a safe driver or paying simultaneously. You can keep your insurance and save money with a few smart choices.
At SFM Insurance, we know that your driving record affects how much you pay for car insurance. If you have an excellent record, you can save more money. We offer different types of insurance to ensure you get the best coverage that fits your needs and budget.
Our team is here to help you find the right plan to protect you while driving without spending too much. We’ll work with you to understand your needs, compare options, and find discounts to ensure you get the best deal. With our support, you can stay safe on the road and keep more money in your pocket.
Contact us today to see how we can help you pay less and stay safe on the road!
