At Premier Choice Insurance, we know that auto insurance rates vary based on many factors, but one of the most important is your driving record. Whether you have a clean record or multiple traffic violations, your driving history can significantly impact your insurance premium. So, how exactly do insurers calculate risk, and what can you do to keep your rates low? Let’s break it down.
What Is Considered When Evaluating a Driving Record?
Insurance companies use your driving history to determine how much of a risk you pose as a policyholder. This evaluation includes:
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Traffic Violations: Speeding tickets, reckless driving, and failure to obey traffic signals can lead to higher premiums.
At-Fault Accidents: If you’ve been involved in multiple accidents, especially where you were deemed at fault, expect higher insurance costs.
DUI or DWI Convictions: A DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) is one of the biggest red flags for insurers and can result in significantly increased rates—or even policy cancellation.
License Suspensions or Revocations: A history of license suspensions due to infractions like excessive speeding or unpaid fines may signal to insurers that you’re a high-risk driver.
Claims History: Insurers may classify you as a high-risk driver if you have filed multiple insurance claims, particularly for at-fault accidents.
How Much Can a Poor Driving Record Increase Your Premium?
Auto insurance companies use a risk-based pricing model, meaning the more violations or accidents you have, the higher your premium. Here’s how different infractions can impact your rates:
| Driving Record Issue | Potential Increase in Premium (%) |
|---|---|
| Clean Record | Lowest Rates |
| Speeding Ticket | 20-30% Increase |
| At-Fault Accident | 30-50% Increase |
| DUI Conviction | 50-80% Increase |
| Multiple Violations | 100%+ Increase |
| License Suspension | Policy Cancellation or SR-22 Requirement |
Drivers with multiple offenses may be required to obtain an SR-22, a unique form that proves they have the required liability insurance. This designation often results in significantly higher premiums.
Can a Good Driving Record Help You Save Money?
Yes! A clean driving record can help you qualify for discounts and lower premiums. Many insurers, including Premier Choice Insurance, offer:
- Safe Driver Discounts for those with a history of responsible driving.
- Accident Forgiveness Programs that prevent your first at-fault accident from raising your premium.
- Usage-Based Insurance, where devices or apps track real-time driving habits to determine your risk level.
- Defensive Driving Course Discounts if you complete an approved driving safety program.
How Long Do Violations Stay on Your Record?
The duration a violation affects your insurance rates depends on state laws and the severity of the offense:
- Minor Violations (e.g., speeding, failure to signal): 3-5 years
- At-Fault Accidents: 3-6 years
- DUI/DWI Convictions: 5-10 years
- License Suspensions: Varies, but typically 3-7 years
Each state’s DMV has different rules, so checking with your provider about when your record will clear can help you plan for lower premiums.
How Can You Improve Your Driving Record and Lower Your Premium?
If past violations have increased your auto insurance costs, here are some steps you can take to improve your record and save money:
Practice Safe Driving Habits – Avoid speeding, aggressive driving, and distracted driving.
Take a Defensive Driving Course – Many insurers offer discounts for completing approved safety courses.
Monitor Your Driving with Telematics – Some insurance companies offer usage-based insurance (UBI) that rewards good driving behavior.
Avoid Filing Unnecessary Claims – Frequent claims can increase your insurance risk classification.
Wait It Out – Traffic violations eventually expire from your record, so maintaining a clean history moving forward can help lower rates over time.
Get the Best Auto Insurance Rates with Premier Choice Insurance
Your driving record plays a major role in your auto insurance premiums, but that doesn’t mean you’re stuck with high rates forever. At Premier Choice Insurance, we help drivers implement the best practices for reducing auto insurance premiums, ensuring you get the most affordable coverage while maintaining the protection you need.
Whether it’s improving your driving habits, taking advantage of safe driver discounts, or bundling policies, we provide expert guidance tailored to your unique situation.
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Looking for ways to lower your auto insurance rates? Contact Premier Choice Insurance today for a personalized quote!
FAQs About Auto Insurance
The minimum coverage required by law typically includes liability insurance, which covers bodily injury and property damage you may cause to others in an accident. Premier Choice Insurance can help you understand the specific requirements and ensure you meet legal standards.
Premier Choice Insurance calculates auto insurance premiums based on factors like your driving history, vehicle type, location, and chosen coverage types. Additional factors such as your credit score and past insurance claims may also influence the rate.
Yes, Premier Choice Insurance offers various auto insurance discounts, including multi-policy discounts, safe driver discounts, and discounts for anti-theft devices installed in vehicles.
Comprehensive coverage protects against damages to your vehicle not caused by a collision. This includes theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, and hitting an animal.
To file a claim, contact Premier Choice Insurance’s claims department as soon as possible after an accident. Provide all necessary documentation and cooperate fully during the claims process to ensure a smooth resolution. To file a claim, contact Premier Choice Insurance’s claims department as soon as possible after an accident. Provide all necessary documentation and cooperate fully during the claims process to ensure a smooth resolution.
Yes, Premier Choice Insurance offers optional roadside assistance coverage, which includes services like towing, flat tire changes, battery jump starts, and lockout assistance.
After ensuring everyone’s safety and calling emergency services if needed, gather information from all parties involved and document the scene with photos. Then, report the accident to Premier Choice Insurance as soon as possible.
Absolutely, Premier Choice Insurance allows you to customize your auto insurance policy with various add-ons and adjustments to meet your specific needs and budget.
It’s advisable to review your auto insurance policy annually or whenever there are significant changes in your driving situation or vehicle ownership.
Gap insurance covers the difference between the actual cash value of a vehicle and the balance still owed on the financing. Premier Choice Insurance offers gap insurance as an optional addition to your auto insurance policy.
About Premier Choice Insurance
Premier Choice Insurance, headquartered in the heart of Mesa, AZ, stands at the forefront of delivering comprehensive business insurance solutions tailored to the unique needs of companies across Arizona. As an esteemed independent insurance agency, we aim to safeguard your business’s future, ensuring peace of mind against life’s unforeseen events.
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Our dedication to excellence is reflected in our wide-ranging services, including but not limited to general liability insurance, commercial property insurance, professional liability (errors and omissions) insurance, workers’ compensation, and commercial auto insurance. We specialize in crafting customized insurance packages that align perfectly with your business’s requirements, ensuring robust protection for your assets, employees, and operations.
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Premier Choice Insurance offers access to an impressive portfolio of over 50 reputable insurance carriers. This vast network enables us to provide our clients with competitive pricing and diverse coverage options, making us a premier choice for insurance in Mesa and throughout Arizona. Our local market expertise and industry-specific knowledge allow us to offer effective and cost-efficient advice and solutions.
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Our team at Premier Choice Insurance is driven by a commitment to integrity, transparency, and unmatched customer service. We understand the complexities of insurance and strive to make the process as straightforward and hassle-free as possible. From risk assessment consultations to claims support, we stand by our clients every step of the way.
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As active members of the Mesa community, we believe in giving back and are involved in various local initiatives and non-profits. This community focus reflects our belief that businesses thrive in a supportive and engaged environment.
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Premier Choice Insurance offers a blend of local expertise, personalized service, and comprehensive solutions for business owners seeking a trusted partner to navigate the complexities of insurance coverage. We are not just your insurance agency but your ally in business resilience and success.
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Discover how Premier Choice Insurance can protect what matters most. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can tailor the perfect insurance strategy for your needs.
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Visit our Mesa, AZ, Insurance Office today.
