I recently received a traffic ticket for a rolling stop and I’m concerned about how it will affect my insurance rates. I’m 18 years old and hold a G2 (probationary) license in Ontario. Currently, I’m listed as a secondary driver on my parents’ 2011 RAV4, and they pay around $150 per month for my insurance.
On Sunday, I was pulled over and ticketed for “Disobey Sign,” which comes with a $110 fine and 2 demerit points. I’m anxious that if I pay the ticket or am found guilty in court, it might drive up my parents’ insurance rates significantly, potentially causing them to remove me from their policy. I recall being told at a school assembly that a first conviction for novice or high-risk drivers could lead to a $300/month increase in insurance.
Has anyone faced a similar situation? I’d really appreciate your advice. For context, the last moving violation in our family was a speeding ticket for going 10 kph over the limit in 2021, which involved a $40 fine and no demerit points.
I understand your concern; dealing with a traffic ticket can be stressful, especially at a young age and on a probationary license. While I can’t provide specific numbers for your situation, I can offer some insights.
Insurance Impact: Yes, traffic violations can lead to increased insurance premiums. The amount can vary significantly based on your insurer, your parents’ insurance history, and how they rate high-risk drivers. Some insurers might impose a more significant increase for novice drivers like yourself.
Demerit Points: Usually, accumulating points can affect your insurance. As you mentioned, insurance companies often consider a young driver with demerit points as higher risk, which could lead to increased rates.
What to Do Next: Consider talking to your insurance provider. They might provide specific information on how this ticket could impact your parents’ premiums. It’s also worth asking if there are ways to mitigate the increase, such as completing a driving course.
Shop Around: If rates do go up significantly, it might be helpful to explore other insurance providers. Some companies may offer better rates for young drivers with a clean record despite a minor infraction like rolling a stop sign.
Consider Contesting the Ticket: Depending on the circumstances, you might want to consult with a legal expert about contesting the ticket if you believe there are grounds to do so. Sometimes, if you can get the conviction reduced or dropped, you may avoid potential insurance rate increases.
Long-Term Perspective: Remember that, while a traffic ticket can make immediate impacts on insurance costs, it’s something you can learn from. Many drivers have had similar experiences, and a clean record going forward can help keep your rates down in the long run.
Make sure to communicate with your parents about the situation. They might be more understanding than you think, and together you can figure out the best way to handle it. Good luck!