In today’s economic times, we’re all looking for ways to cut costs. This often means that we’re taking a hard look at our car insurance to make sure we’re getting the best deal. There are several factors that contribute to your overall car insurance rates. One of them is your driving record. And, perhaps you didn’t realize it, but racking up a few speeding tickets can have a significant negative impact on your car insurance rates.

It’s been shown time and again that high speed is a factor in approximately 35% of car accidents. So, we know that slowing down reduces accidents and saves lives. It’s also been shown that receiving a speeding ticket will slow speed demons down – at least for a while. One study showed that in the month following a speeding ticket, the driver has a 35% less chance of being in a fatal crash. Over the next few months, the effect diminishes. Another study showed that, overall, consistent speeders are 50% more likely to die in a fatal automobile accident than those who respect the law. So, you can see why the police are cracking down and why insurance companies are raising the car insurance rates of chronic speeders.

In some cases, one speeding ticket won’t increase your car insurance rates, unless you were driving at a very high rate of speed. In many states, driving more than 15 miles per hour over the posted speed limit can get you a ticket for speeding and for reckless driving – these two combined are sure to cause retaliation from your carrier.

So, just how much will my car insurance rates increase?

This is a difficult question to answer. Many factors affect your rate and the effect of your ticket(s). If you have a discount for a “clean driving record” with your carrier, you could see a pretty stiff increase – as much as 27% for just one ticket. The average “clean driving record” discount is about 25%, so with one ticket you’ve lost your discount. Get caught a second and even third time in a three year period and you’ll be spending thousands more in premiums. The “points” that come with speeding tickets typically affect your insurance rates for three years, so the extra premiums really add up.

Should I change carriers to avoid the higher rates? 

There’s no harm in shopping around – but it likely will not help. Your current carrier is far more likely to be lenient with you, particularly if you’re a long time customer, than a new insurance carrier. You can rest assured that when your prospective carrier gets your application, he will check your driving record.

Should I fight my speeding ticket?

It’s typically wise to fight a ticket, because there’s always the chance that, even if you were speeding, you’ll get lucky and win on a technicality. You don’t need a lawyer, just go to court and use some common sense. For example, don’t admit guilt.

We all want to protect our good car insurance rate, and keeping a clean driving record is one of the best ways to do so. Being careful on the road can save your money – and your life. For more tips on keeping your car insurance rate low, visit www.cheapcarinsurancequotetips.com .