1. Traffic Violations/Accidents

Although some drivers don’t make the connection between their driving habits and insurance premium rates, the reality is that insurers consider a good driving record as an essential element in obtaining the best auto insurance premiums. Of course, insurers understand most drivers are bound to have a traffic violation or accident at some point. Therefore, most insurers don’t make substantial increases to insurance premiums for a single incident. However, insurers are very likely to make increases when a driver has multiple accidents and/or traffic violations on their driving record. In fact, the insurer may even decline to renew the policy of such a driver. Drivers dropped by an insurance company may find it very difficult to find an affordable policy through a different insurer. On the other hand, drivers with a good record should periodically review their policy to see if they qualify for any premium decreases. (more…)