How a Georgia Traffic Ticket Can Raise Your Insurance Rates

Getting a traffic ticket in Georgia is more than just paying a fine. The ticket can follow you for years by raising your car insurance rates. Many drivers don’t realize how much of an impact a single violation can have on their driving record and wallet. Knowing what to expect can help you make smarter choices about how to handle your ticket.

The Immediate Impact of Major Traffic Violations

Some violations almost guarantee an increase in your insurance premiums. These are considered high-risk behaviors by insurers and come with serious consequences, such as:

• Refusing a Breath or Blood Test – Leads to an automatic license suspension and severe penalties.

• DUI or Driving Under the Influence – One of the most costly violations in terms of insurance hikes nationwide.

• Reckless Driving – Includes excessive speeding and other dangerous actions.

• Leaving the Scene of an Accident – Often treated as a hit-and-run, with heavy fines and penalties.

• Fleeing from Police – A serious charge that causes significant spikes in insurance rates.

• Driving With a Suspended License – Insurance companies view this as a major red flag.

• Street Racing – Extremely risky behavior that almost always results in major rate increases.

Call the Georgia Traffic Lawyer team, 404-315-9936, 24/7 for a free ticket consultation if you need assistance with any of these types of tickets.

Minor Violations and Their Possible Effects

Not every traffic ticket will stick with you forever. In fact, with the help of a Georgia traffic lawyer such as Scott Fortas, some violations may be reduced or dismissed so they don’t add points to your license. Common minor violations include:

• Speeding (various levels)

• Failure to Yield

• Improper Passing or Turning

• Following Too Closely (Tailgating)

• Texting While Driving

• Driving Without Proof of Insurance

• Expired or Missing Driver’s License

• Passing a School Bus

• Child Safety Seat Violations

How Much Can Insurance Rates Go Up?

Insurance companies use your driving history to assess risk, and traffic tickets play a big role. Based on nationwide data from over 490,000 insurance quotes, here’s how much certain violations can raise your premiums on average:

• Reckless Driving: 22% increase

• DUI (First Offense): 19% increase

• Driving Without a License/Permit: 18% increase

• Speeding 30+ mph Over Limit: 15% increase

• Failure to Stop: 15% increase

• Improper Turn: 14% increase

• Improper Passing: 14% increase

• Following Too Closely: 13% increase

• Speeding 15–29 mph Over Limit: 12% increase

• Speeding 1–14 mph Over Limit: 11% increase

• Failure to Yield: 9% increase

• No Car Insurance: 6% increase

• Seat Belt Violations: 3% increase

What to Do If You Get a Ticket in Georgia

Before you automatically pay your ticket, consider your options. Paying means admitting guilt, which could affect your driving record and raise your insurance rates for years. In many cases, hiring a Georgia traffic lawyer can help reduce charges, keep points off your record, and minimize the expense.

Call our Georgia Traffic Ticket Lawyers today at 404-315-9936 for a free consultation. We’ll review your case and help you understand the best steps to protect both your license and your wallet.

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FAQs About Georgia Traffic Tickets and Insurance

1. Will my insurance company know if I get a ticket?
Yes. Insurance companies regularly check driving records when you renew or apply for coverage.

2. Can a lawyer keep a ticket off my record in Georgia?
In many cases, yes. An experienced traffic attorney can negotiate for reduced charges, dismissals, or no points on your license.

3. Do all tickets increase insurance rates?
Not always. Minor violations may not impact your premiums at all if they are reduced or dismissed in court.

5. How many points does a speeding ticket add in Georgia?
It depends on how fast you were going. For example, speeding 15–18 mph over the limit adds 2 points, while speeding 34 mph or more over the limit adds 6 points.

6. What happens if I don’t pay a traffic ticket in Georgia?
Failure to pay can result in a license suspension, additional fines, and even a bench warrant.

7. Can defensive driving classes lower my insurance after a ticket?
Yes, in some cases. Completing a Georgia-approved defensive driving course may reduce points and help with insurance costs.

8. Will my rates go up if I fight and win my ticket?
No. If your ticket is dismissed or reduced without points, your insurance company typically will not raise your rates since it won’t appear on your driving record.

9. How much can my insurance go up after a DUI in Georgia?
A DUI can increase premiums by 19% or more and may cause your insurer to drop your policy altogether.

10. Is it worth hiring a lawyer for a Georgia speeding ticket?
Yes. Even a single speeding ticket can raise your rates for years, and an attorney may help you avoid points, protect your record, and save money in the long run.