If you are a driver in North Carolina, you may be wondering how moving violations, like speeding tickets, affect your auto insurance rates. Moving violations are traffic offenses that occur when a vehicle is in motion, such as speeding, running a red light, or reckless driving. These violations can have a negative impact on your car insurance premiums, depending on the type and severity of the offense, your driving record, and your insurance company’s policies.
The Safe Driver Incentive Plan for Car Insurance in NC
According to the North Carolina Department of Insurance, North Carolina has a Safe Driver Incentive Plan (SDIP) that assigns points to different types of moving violations and accidents. The more points you have on your record, the higher your auto insurance surcharge will be. For example, a speeding ticket for more than 10 mph over the limit will add one point to your record and increase your premium by 30%, while a hit and run or a DUI will add 12 points and increase your premium by 340%. Some minor violations, such as driving too slowly or failing to wear a seat belt, do not carry any points and will not affect your insurance rates.
However, not all moving violations are reported to your car insurance company. In some cases, you may be able to avoid a surcharge by taking a driver improvement course or pleading to a lesser offense. For instance, in Georgia, a red-light camera ticket does not add any points to your record or affect your insurance rates, while an officer-issued ticket does. Therefore, it is important to consult with your insurance agent and a traffic attorney before paying any fines or admitting guilt for a moving violation.
In conclusion, moving violations can affect your auto insurance rates in North Carolina by adding points to your record and increasing your surcharge. However, the impact of each violation depends on various factors, such as the type and severity of the offense, your driving history, and your insurance company’s policies. To avoid or reduce the consequences of a moving violation, you should always drive safely and responsibly, and seek legal advice if you receive a ticket.
