Will a warning raise your insurance?

No, a verbal or written warning from law enforcement typically will not raise your car insurance rates — because it’s not recorded as a violation.

Do Warnings Affect Insurance?

Receiving a warning instead of a citation means that nothing gets reported to your state DMV. Since insurance companies base their rates on your official driving record, a warning won’t change your premium.

However, repeated traffic stops (even with only warnings) might indicate risky driving. If it turns into a pattern, and later results in real citations, you could eventually see a rate hike.

What Does Raise Car Insurance Premiums?

• Moving violations (e.g., speeding, running a red light)

• At-fault accidents

• DUI or reckless driving charges

• Multiple claims in a short period

• Poor credit (in some states)

How to Keep Your Insurance Premiums Low

1. Drive safely and avoid traffic stops altogether

2. Take a defensive driving course (you may qualify for a discount)

3. Bundle your auto policy with renters or homeowners insurance

4. Review your policy annually and shop around

5. Work with an independent agency like Toby Hansen Agency — we compare nearly 100 carriers to find you the best price

Estimated Car Insurance Prices in Montana (2025)

✅ Note: Warnings alone do not affect these prices.

FAQ: Will a Warning Raise Your Insurance?

Q: Is a police warning the same as a citation?
A: No. A warning is informal and doesn’t appear on your driving record. A citation (ticket) does.

Q: Can insurance companies see warnings?
A: Typically no. Warnings are not reported to the DMV or insurers unless they’re accompanied by an actual violation.

Q: Will multiple warnings eventually impact my insurance?
A: Not directly, but if they lead to citations, your driving history could start to look risky to insurers.

Q: Should I tell my insurance company about a warning?
A: There’s no need — they won’t have access to it unless it becomes a ticket.

A warning will not raise your insurance rate — but it’s a wake-up call. One ticket could cost you hundreds more per year in premiums.

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