Wondering how driving history impacts your insurance quote? Your past behavior behind the wheel plays a major role. Insurance companies use your record to assess your risk. A clean driving history means lower premiums — and violations can significantly increase your rate.
In this article, we explain how driving history impacts your insurance quote, which violations matter most, and what you can do to lower your rate over time.
Why Your Driving History Impacts Your Insurance Quote
Auto insurance is based on risk. If your record shows you’ve caused accidents or received citations, insurers consider you more likely to file a claim — and they’ll charge more. On the other hand, clean records often qualify for discounts of up to 30%.
Key Violations That Can Raise Your Insurance Quote
- Accidents: At-fault accidents can raise your rate by 20–50% and stay on your record for 3–5 years.
- Speeding Tickets: Even small violations can raise rates 10–20% depending on your state.
- DUI/DWI: These high-risk offenses can double or triple your premium and stay for up to 10 years.
- License Suspensions: Suggest serious issues and trigger major rate increases.
- Points on License: Many states assign points, which insurers use to adjust pricing.
- Claims History: Multiple claims—even not-at-fault—can affect your rate.
How Long Will a Violation Impact Your Quote?
Infractions don’t last forever. Here’s a general timeline for how long they impact your premiums:
- Minor violations: 3 years
- Major violations: 5–7 years
- DUI/DWI: Up to 10 years
- Claims: 3–5 years on average
How to Lower Your Insurance Quote After Violations
- Take a defensive driving course: Can remove points and trigger discounts.
- Use telematics or usage-based programs: Safe driving tracked by app may reduce your rate.
- Compare quotes often: Each insurer evaluates driving history differently.
- Bundle insurance: Combine home and auto policies for extra savings.
- Wait it out: Ask your insurer to reevaluate your quote once violations expire.
Insurance Companies That Are More Forgiving
- Progressive: Offers accident forgiveness and flexible pricing.
- The General: Specializes in coverage for high-risk drivers.
- GEICO: Offers discounts for improving driving behavior over time.
- State Farm: Drive Safe & Save™ program rewards clean habits.
Final Thoughts on How Driving History Impacts Your Insurance Quote
Understanding how driving history impacts your insurance quote helps you take control of your rates. While past violations can raise premiums, safe driving, strategic policy management, and patience can bring your cost down.
Want to explore more ways to save? Visit our guide on all factors that affect your insurance rate.
Helpful Resources: Progressive Discounts
