How a Speeding Ticket Impacts Your Insurance in California

You can expect the cost of car insurance in California to increase by about 51 percent with a speeding ticket on your record. USAA and GEICO are cheapest after a speeding citation, on average, although USAA only serves military-affiliated customers.

1. Attend traffic school. If you attend traffic school, the state will remove a one-point violation from your record. You’ll get a notice from the court if you’re eligible to attend, and you can do this only once per 18-month period. See a list of the state-approved traffic schools in your area.
2. Ask your insurer about discounts. Common discounts that may still apply include: multi-policy , good student (if applicable), anti-theft device, defensive driving, and a low-mileage.
3. Shop around for a new insurance quote. Different insurers rate violations differently, and some companies penalize minor speeding less severely than others. Compare quotes from at least three insurers to find a cheaper rate.
4. Adjust your coverage strategically. Increasing your deductible can lower premiums. Removing collision and comprehensive coverages on older vehicles that are fully paid off will also reduce costs. That said, it’s wise to maintain liability limits above the California minimum.

If you’re caught driving over the posted speed limit in California, you’ll pay a hefty fee for a moving violation. In addition to the base fine for a speeding ticket, you’ll also pay court penalties and assessments. These fines can double if your violation occurs in a construction or school zone.

If you drive 100 mph or more on a highway, a court may also mandate your appearance if it’s indicated on your citation.

After getting a speeding citation, you may also get points on your record, which will remain there for 36 months or longer. While the speeding ticket is on your record, expect to pay a higher car insurance premium. Moreover, you could have your license suspended if you accumulate four points or more within a year.³

Once you’ve received a speeding citation, you have two options: pay for the ticket or contest it. But whatever you do, don’t ignore it, as it could lead to harsher penalties.

Pay the ticket

Paying the ticket online is the simplest route, and it works whether you plead guilty or no contest. Both pleas count as a conviction on your record.  The difference shows up if you’re ever sued over the incident. With a no contest plea, the other party still has to prove you were speeding. A guilty plea removes that burden for them, since it counts as an admission of the violation.

Contest the ticket

Your other option is to ask for a trial before the due date on your court notice. During your trial, you can bring in witnesses and present evidence to support your claim. If you’re found guilty, the judge will set a fine for your violation.

The trial can occur in one of two ways:

• Written declaration: With a written declaration, you won’t have to appear at court. Instead, you can explain what occurred in a written statement and request a trial by written declaration.
• Court trial: You can also request a court trial, which happens either in person or remotely over the phone or video. In a court trial, a lawyer can represent you.

A speeding ticket raises your rates by an average of 51 percent in California — one of the highest increases of any state. Besides paying higher premiums, drivers convicted of speeding pay over $200 in fines.

USAA, GEICO, and AAA (CSAA) have the cheapest rates after a ticket. Even if you’re convicted of speeding, you can attend traffic school, ask about discounts, shop for a new insurer, or adjust your coverages to lower your premiums.