Your driving record is one of the biggest factors insurance companies use to determine your auto insurance premium. A clean record with no accidents or violations signals that you’re a low-risk driver, which typically qualifies you for lower rates and discounts. On the other hand, a history of speeding tickets, at-fault accidents, DUIs, or license suspensions can significantly raise your premiums.
Insurers base rates on risk, and your driving history is a proven predictor of future claims. Even a single speeding ticket can increase your rate by 20–40%, while an at-fault accident may raise it by 50% or more.
If you’re concerned about your rates due to your record, Insure on the Spot can help — call 773-202-5060 for guidance.
Why Do Insurance Companies Care About My Driving Record?
Insurance companies use your driving history to assess how likely you are to file a claim. The more incidents on your record, the higher the perceived risk, and the higher your premium. A clean record shows insurers that you’re a responsible driver and less likely to be involved in future accidents.
Your driving record includes moving violations like speeding, red light violations, DUIs, and any at-fault crashes. These incidents are tracked by the DMV and shared with insurers. Data shows that drivers with prior incidents are more likely to file claims again, which is why even minor violations can impact what you pay.
How Often Do Insurers Review My Driving History?
Most auto insurance companies check your driving record when you first apply for a policy and again at renewal, typically every 6 to 12 months. They pull your motor vehicle report from the DMV to see if any new violations or accidents would affect your risk rating.
Some insurers may subscribe to real-time alerts from state databases, so they can find out about major violations mid-policy. While most rate changes happen at renewal, serious offenses can trigger immediate action. Expect insurers to focus on the past 3 to 5 years of your record, with more recent infractions carrying greater weight.
Do Tickets or Accidents Always Raise Insurance Rates?
Not every ticket or accident will automatically increase your rate. Some insurers offer accident forgiveness or may overlook a single minor violation, especially if you’ve been a long-time customer with a clean record. However, repeated offenses or severe violations usually lead to rate hikes.
The impact depends on the nature of the incident. A minor fender-bender might have a small effect, while a major at-fault crash or DUI could significantly raise your premium. Typically, you’ll see the increase at your next renewal once the insurer updates your risk profile.
Do Parking Tickets or Non-Moving Violations Affect My Insurance?
Parking tickets and other non-moving violations, like expired registration or equipment violations, generally do not affect your insurance rates. These types of infractions are not considered indicators of risky driving behavior and usually don’t appear on your motor vehicle report.
However, failing to pay fines can lead to indirect consequences. For example, unpaid tickets may impact your credit or lead to license suspensions, which insurers do take seriously. As long as you pay tickets promptly and keep your registration current, your insurance rates should not be affected.
How Long Do Accidents and Tickets Stay on My Driving Record?
Most traffic violations and at-fault accidents remain on your driving record for 3 to 5 years. Insurers use this lookback period when setting rates, with recent infractions having the biggest impact. After a few years of clean driving, you may see surcharges drop off.
More serious offenses like DUIs or reckless driving can remain on your record for 7 years or longer and may affect your insurance eligibility for a decade or more. In Illinois, a DUI stays on your driving record permanently, although insurers may only rate it for a certain number of years.
What Happens If I’m Caught Driving Without Insurance in Illinois?
Driving without insurance in Illinois is a serious offense that leads to fines, registration suspension, and potential license suspension. A first offense results in a $500 minimum fine and a suspended registration until proof of insurance is shown and reinstatement fees are paid.
Repeat offenses may require you to carry an SR-22 certificate for three years, which designates you as a high-risk driver. Insurers often charge significantly more for SR-22 policies, and some may refuse coverage altogether. Insure on the Spot helps drivers meet SR-22 requirements affordably and stay compliant.
What If I Get a DUI or Need an SR-22 Filing?
A DUI conviction triggers major insurance consequences. Your premium can double or triple, and you may need an SR-22 filing to reinstate your license. An SR-22 is not insurance itself but a certificate proving you carry the state-mandated coverage.
After a DUI, your insurance choices may be limited to high-risk carriers. You’ll likely be required to maintain continuous insurance for several years. Insure on the Spot can help you file an SR-22 and secure coverage that meets Illinois legal requirements.
How Can I Lower My Insurance Rates If I Have a Bad Driving Record?
Even with a poor record, there are ways to reduce your premium. Start by shopping around — some insurers are more lenient than others depending on the types of violations. Also, ask about discounts like bundling policies, installing safety devices, or taking a defensive driving course.
Consider raising your deductible or adjusting your coverage if appropriate. You can also explore usage-based insurance programs that reward good driving behavior with lower rates. Most importantly, focus on avoiding new violations — over time, older ones will fall off your record and your rates will improve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does my driving record really affect my car insurance rates?
A: Yes. A clean record lowers your premium, while accidents or violations increase it. Insurers view your history as a key indicator of future risk.
Q: How far back do insurance companies check driving records?
A: Most insurers look back 3 to 5 years. Serious offenses like DUIs may be rated longer depending on the company and state.
Q: Can I get car insurance with a bad driving record?
A: Yes, though it may be more expensive. You might need to work with high-risk insurers or use an SR-22 filing to meet state requirements.
Q: How can I lower my insurance rates with points on my record?
A: Shop around, ask about discounts, take a driving course, or enroll in a usage-based program. Most importantly, avoid new violations.
Q: Do parking tickets affect my insurance?
A: No. Parking tickets don’t appear on your driving record and don’t impact insurance rates unless unpaid fines lead to license issues.
Q: What is an SR-22, and will it raise my rates?
A: An SR-22 is a certificate proving you carry required insurance. It’s usually required after serious violations and does increase premiums.
Q: Why did my insurance go up if I haven’t had any tickets?
A: Rate increases can result from inflation, statewide claim trends, ZIP code changes, credit score shifts, or prior discounts expiring.
Your Trusted Auto Insurer
At Insure on the Spot, we specialize in helping drivers with all kinds of records — good, bad, or rebuilding. Whether you need an SR-22 filing, have questions about points on your record, or just want a better rate, we’re here to help.
Call us at 773-202-5060 or get a free quote today. Our licensed agents are ready to find you the right coverage and help you get back on track.