Does having a traffic ticket affect my ability to get car insurance?

Yes, having a traffic ticket can affect your ability to get car insurance in Washington. Car insurance companies assess your risk before they decide to insure you. If you have had a traffic ticket in the past, they may not be willing to insure you, or they may charge you higher rates. In Washington, insurance companies will review your driving record and determine how much of a risk it is to insure you. Tickets can remain on your record for three to five years, depending on its severity. Traffic tickets can include anything from a speeding ticket to a DUI. The amount of risk you pose to an insurance company can also depend on the reason for your ticket. Some offenses are considered more serious than others, and can result in higher rates. If you received a ticket for following too closely, for example, it may have less of an impact than if you received a ticket for a DUI. It’s important to keep your driving record clean to avoid penalties that can come with getting a traffic ticket. Avoiding tickets means you will be less of a risk in the eyes of the insurance company and may help you get better rates. If you do receive a ticket, you should check with your current insurance company to see if they’ll raise your rates.

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Does having a traffic ticket affect my ability to get car insurance?

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