Will a warning raise your insurance?

In most cases, a simple warning from a law enforcement officer, such as a verbal warning or a written warning (often referred to as a “fix-it ticket”), should not directly impact your car insurance rates. Insurance companies typically use more severe incidents, such as traffic violations that result in citations or points on your driving record, as factors in determining your insurance premiums.

Here are some key points to consider:

1. Verbal Warnings: Verbal warnings given by police officers are not typically recorded on your driving record and, therefore, should not affect your insurance rates.
   
   

2. Written Warnings or Fix-It Tickets: Written warnings or fix-it tickets are often issued for minor infractions, such as a broken taillight or expired registration. These warnings usually do not result in points on your driving record and should not affect your insurance rates.
   
   

3. Traffic Citations: Traffic citations, such as speeding tickets or citations for more serious violations, can result in points being added to your driving record. These points are more likely to lead to higher insurance premiums because they indicate a history of risky driving behavior.
   
   

4. Insurance Company Policies: While warnings themselves generally do not affect insurance rates, insurance companies have their own policies and may use different criteria when assessing risk. It’s a good idea to check with your insurance provider to understand their specific policies regarding warnings and traffic citations.
   
   

5. Safe Driving Habits: The best way to keep your insurance rates low is to maintain safe driving habits and avoid traffic violations that can lead to citations or points on your record.
   
   

Remember that traffic laws and enforcement policies can vary by jurisdiction, so it’s essential to follow the rules of the road and drive safely to minimize the risk of receiving warnings or citations in the first place. If you have concerns about the impact of a warning on your insurance rates, you can discuss the specifics with your insurance provider for clarification.