When you have a spotty driving record, you are considered high-risk for auto insurance companies. The good news is that you won’t have the high-risk label forever if you avoid future traffic violations. Any concerns with how your driving history affects your insurance rates can be discussed with the agents from Wine Valley Insurance Services.
Variable Timeframes
Each insurance carrier will handle poor driving records differently. For minor violations, the insurance carrier may only consider incidents that occurred in the last two to three years. For more serious traffic violations and accidents, the report may stay on your record for at least five years. Insurance carriers who cover drivers in the Napa, CA area may offer accident forgiveness for policyholders who typically have a good driving record.
Types of Offenses
Not all traffic incidents will have a major impact on insurance premiums. For instance, non-moving violations such as an expired inspection sticker or parking ticket will not likely change insurance rates. High-speed driving tickets, DUI violations, and careless driving tickets will have the most effect on insurance coverage.
Quick Ways to Clean Up a Driving Record
Waiting for your driving record to clear up on its own can feel cumbersome. The good news is drivers can take proactive steps to fix their driving records. For one, you can choose to fight any traffic violation tickets. The ticket may be dismissed or reduced by the judge depending on the circumstances. You could also request traffic violations, and convictions are expunged from your driving record through the State of California Department of Motor Vehicles. Driver safety courses also assist with fixing a poor driving record in order to secure better auto insurance rates.
Contact one of the friendly and professional agents from Wine Valley Insurance Services about auto insurance coverage. The company serves drivers located in Napa, CA and surrounding areas.
