If you drive in the United States, understanding what counts as a violation for car insurance is important for keeping your rates low and your record clean. Car insurance companies track your driving history closely to measure risk. A violation is any traffic offense, accident, or rule-breaking incident that shows risky behavior behind the wheel. These violations can cause your insurance rates to increase, sometimes by hundreds of dollars per year.
Violations can be as simple as speeding or as serious as driving under the influence. Each offense adds points to your driving record, and insurers use those points to calculate your premium. The more violations you have, the more your insurance company sees you as a higher-risk driver.
For instance, according to the Insurance Information Institute, a single speeding ticket can raise your premium by 10 to 25 percent, while a DUI can increase it by over 70 percent. Insurance providers access this information from your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) when you apply for or renew coverage.
Some violations stay on your record for three years, while severe ones may remain for up to ten years, depending on your state laws. Knowing which actions are considered violations and how to prevent them can save you thousands of dollars over time.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explain what car insurance violations are, the types of violations that affect your rates, how long they stay on your record, and smart ways to avoid penalties while keeping your insurance affordable.
What Is a Violation for Car Insurance?
A violation for car insurance refers to any legal offense or rule-breaking event that shows unsafe or irresponsible driving behavior. Insurance companies categorize these into three main types minor, major, and severe violations.
Each type impacts your premiums differently based on how much risk it signals to your insurer.
Common examples of car insurance violations:
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Running red lights or stop signs
- At-fault accidents
- Distracted driving (texting or phone use)
- Driving without insurance
- Driving under the influence (DUI or DWI)
- License suspension or revocation
When you get a ticket or citation, the DMV adds points to your record. Insurance companies access these records through your Motor Vehicle Report (MVR). More points often mean higher premiums or even denial of coverage.
Types of Car Insurance Violations
| Violation Type | Example Offenses | Average Premium Increase | Impact Duration |
| Minor Violations | Speeding 1–10 mph over limit, failure to signal | 10%–20% | 3 years |
| Major Violations | At-fault accident, reckless driving | 25%–40% | 5 years |
| Severe Violations | DUI, hit-and-run, driving with suspended license | 50%–100%+ | 7–10 years |
Let’s explore each category in detail.
1. Minor Violations
Minor violations are the most common and usually happen due to momentary mistakes or distractions. While not as serious, repeated minor offenses can lead to large insurance hikes.
Examples:
- Speeding (under 15 mph above limit)
- Failing to use turn signals
- Rolling through a stop sign
- Improper lane changes
- Expired registration
A single minor violation may not raise rates significantly, but two or more can result in being labeled a “risky driver.”
2. Major Violations
Major violations are more serious and often involve endangering others on the road. Insurers penalize these strongly because they show a pattern of unsafe behavior.
Examples:
- Speeding 20 mph or more above the limit
- Running a red light and causing a crash
- At-fault accident with injuries
- Distracted or aggressive driving
- Tailgating that leads to collision
Drivers with major violations often see their insurance premiums increase by 30% to 50%. Some insurers might even refuse renewal after multiple offenses.
3. Severe Violations
Severe violations are the highest-risk category. They involve breaking laws that endanger lives or show reckless disregard for safety. These stay on your record much longer and can double your premium.
Examples:
- DUI or DWI (driving under the influence)
- Hit-and-run accidents
- Driving with a suspended license
- Vehicular manslaughter
- Racing on public roads
A single DUI can increase your premium by $1,000 or more per year. Some drivers may need to file an SR-22 form, which certifies that they carry the state’s minimum insurance coverage.
How Violations Affect Car Insurance Rates
Car insurance pricing depends on risk. When insurers see violations on your record, they assume you are more likely to file a claim.
Here’s how they calculate your rates:
- Review your driving record: Insurers check your MVR for recent tickets or accidents.
- Assign risk points: Each violation adds points based on severity.
- Adjust your premium: More points equal higher premiums.
- Reevaluate every renewal: If you maintain a clean record, your rates can decrease after a few years.
According to ValuePenguin, the average U.S. driver pays around $1,700 per year for full coverage. After one major violation, that can rise to $2,300 or more.
Violations That Raise Car Insurance Rates the Most
| Violation | Average Annual Rate Increase | Duration on Record |
| DUI or DWI | 70% to 100% | 7–10 years |
| Reckless Driving | 40% to 70% | 5–7 years |
| At-Fault Accident | 30% to 50% | 3–5 years |
| Speeding Ticket | 10% to 25% | 3 years |
| Distracted Driving | 20% to 30% | 3 years |
| Driving Without Insurance | 30% | 5 years |
How Long Do Violations Stay on Your Record?
Each state has its own point system and time limits. On average:
- Minor violations: 3 years
- Major violations: 5 years
- Severe violations (like DUI): 7–10 years
Examples by state:
| State | Violation Record Duration | Source |
| California | 3 to 10 years | DMV California |
| Texas | 3 years | Texas DPS |
| Florida | Up to 5 years | Florida DHSMV |
| New York | 4 years | NY DMV |
To check your own driving record, you can contact your state DMV online.
Common Non-Traffic Violations That Affect Insurance
Insurance companies also track non-traffic issues that signal risk, including:
- Failure to pay premiums on time
- Providing false information on applications
- License suspension or revocation
- Vehicle registration issues
These administrative problems can make you ineligible for preferred rates or discounts.
How to Reduce Insurance Impact After a Violation
If you’ve recently received a ticket or had an accident, there are several ways to minimize its effect on your premium.
1. Take a Defensive Driving Course
Many states and insurers offer discounts if you complete an approved safety program. These can remove points from your record and lower your rate.
2. Maintain a Clean Record
Avoid new violations for at least three years. After that, most insurers reclassify you as a safe driver.
3. Compare Insurance Quotes
Different companies weigh violations differently. Shopping around can help you find lower rates.
4. Ask for Discounts
You may still qualify for safe driver, multi-car, or bundling discounts even with one violation.
5. Increase Your Deductible
A higher deductible can lower your monthly premium, though it means paying more out of pocket after a claim.
Serious Violations That May Require SR-22
If your license is suspended after a major or severe violation, you may need to file an SR-22 form (also called a Certificate of Financial Responsibility).
This document proves you carry the minimum liability coverage required by your state. It is typically required after:
- DUI or DWI conviction
- Driving without insurance
- Multiple traffic violations in short time
- License suspension
The SR-22 stays in effect for 3 years on average, depending on the state.
Can Violations Be Removed from Your Record?
Yes, in some cases. You can request to have old or minor violations removed early if:
- You complete a state-approved traffic school course.
- You maintain a clean driving record for a set period.
- Your state DMV allows point reductions over time.
Contact your local DMV or insurance agent to check eligibility.
Difference Between Traffic Violations and Car Insurance Fraud
While traffic violations result from unsafe driving, insurance violations refer to dishonest acts related to your policy. Examples include:
- Lying about your address to lower premiums
- Claiming damage that existed before an accident
- Hiding household drivers to reduce costs
These are considered insurance fraud and can result in fines, policy cancellation, or criminal charges.
Impact of Violations on Different Types of Coverage
| Coverage Type | How Violations Affect It |
| Liability Coverage | Higher minimum requirements after at-fault crashes |
| Collision Coverage | Higher deductibles or denial for risky drivers |
| Comprehensive Coverage | May become unavailable for repeated claims |
| Uninsured Motorist Coverage | Premiums rise with frequent at-fault accidents |
Having consistent, clean coverage helps avoid policy non-renewal or premium spikes.
How Insurance Companies View Violations Over Time
Insurers don’t just look at your most recent ticket they analyze patterns. For example:
- One speeding ticket in 3 years may not hurt much.
- Three tickets in 18 months could label you a high-risk driver.
- Repeated DUIs may disqualify you from standard insurance altogether.
Over time, safe driving can restore your good standing and unlock lower premiums again.
Tips to Avoid Violations
- Always obey posted speed limits.
- Never text or talk on the phone while driving.
- Check traffic signs carefully before intersections.
- Keep insurance and registration up to date.
- Avoid driving when tired, impaired, or distracted.
- Maintain your car to prevent brake or light violations.
Following traffic laws not only keeps you safe but also saves money in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Any ticket, citation, or offense such as speeding, running a red light, or a DUI counts as a violation. These incidents raise your insurance premiums because they show risky behavior.
A minor ticket might raise your premium by 10% to 20%. A serious offense like a DUI could raise it by 70% or more.
Most violations stay on your record for 3 to 5 years. Serious offenses, like DUIs, can stay for up to 10 years.
Yes, in some states, you can take a defensive driving course or apply for point removal after maintaining a clean record for a set time.
If you are in an accident while committing a violation, your coverage still applies in most cases, but your insurer may raise your rates afterward.
Moving violations happen while driving (like speeding). Non-moving violations include parking or registration issues. Insurers focus more on moving violations.
Conclusion
Understanding what is considered a violation for car insurance can help you protect your wallet and your driving record. Every ticket, accident, or serious offense adds to your risk level and increases your premiums. The key to keeping insurance affordable is practicing safe driving, paying attention to traffic laws, and maintaining continuous coverage.
If you already have a violation, don’t panic many insurers offer forgiveness programs or lower-cost coverage for drivers who rebuild their record. Regularly checking your driving history and comparing quotes helps you stay one step ahead.
For affordable quotes from top-rated providers and guidance on how to save after a violation, visit Alias Insurance, where you can compare free car insurance quotes tailored for your needs.
