Texting While Driving: The Hidden Insurance Costs You Need to Know
Distracted driving is not only dangerous—it’s also expensive
Texting while driving is not only dangerous; it can also carry significant financial consequences. Getting caught using your phone behind the wheel can result in a traffic ticket, which may lead to hefty fines, points on your license, and increased car insurance premiums.
And it’s not just texting. Other forms of distracted driving, such as scrolling through apps or adjusting your GPS, can come with similar consequences.
Here’s how texting and other electronic distractions behind the wheel affect your insurance and what you can do to minimize the impact.
Does a texting-while-driving ticket increase your car insurance rates?
Yes, a ticket for using an electronic device while driving can increase your auto insurance premium, depending on your insurer and the laws in your state. Insurance companies typically view these violations as a form of distracted driving, which can indicate riskier behavior and an increased likelihood of being in an accident. Even if it’s your first offense, many insurers may still raise your rates.
The impact on your insurance also depends on where you live and how the violation is classified. In most states, texting while driving is a primary offense, meaning you can be pulled over for it alone. Fines vary from relatively small amounts to as much as $1,000. Also, in some cases, points may be added to your license, which can lead to long-term insurance rate increases.
Some states—such as Idaho, Massachusetts, North Carolina, and Washington—limit or prohibit insurers from factoring texting-while-driving tickets into your premiums. However, these protections can vary by violation type, so it's worth reviewing your local regulations.
How much does a texting-while-driving ticket increase your insurance rates?
Texting while driving may seem minor, but most insurance companies won’t see it that way. Many treat distracted driving violations seriously.
If you’re caught texting behind the wheel, your premium could increase significantly. According to recent data from Insurance.com, a texting violation results in an average 28 percent increase in car insurance premiums. Depending on state laws and your insurance company, this range could be as small as 9 percent or as steep as 51 percent.
That translates to paying an additional $150 to $900 more per year.
States with the highest average premium increases:
- California (51%)
- New Jersey (44%)
- Vermont (44%)
- Rhode Island (42%)
- North Carolina (39%)
States with the lowest increases:
- New York (9%)
- Wyoming (12%)
- Hawaii (14%)
- Pennsylvania (15%)
Which factors affect auto insurance increases?
Insurers weigh several variables when adjusting your premium after a violation. These include the following factors:
- Age and experience. Younger and less experienced drivers often see larger increases because they’re statistically more likely to engage in risky behavior.
- Driving history. If you have a clean record, one texting-and-driving ticket may cause a modest increase. However, if you already have prior speeding tickets, accidents, or other violations, the penalty is likely to be much steeper.
- Severity of the offense. If the texting violation is combined with reckless driving or results in an accident, the financial penalty can be much higher.
How long will a texting ticket affect your insurance?
A violation for texting while driving typically stays on your record for three to five years, depending on your state and your insurer. You’ll likely pay higher premiums during this period. However, as time passes without any additional violations, your rates should gradually return to normal.
How can you minimize the financial impact of a texting-while-driving ticket?
If you received a texting-while-driving citation—often categorized as a distracted driving violation—these steps can reduce the financial impact:
- Shop around for quotes. Not all insurers treat violations the same way. Some may penalize you less for a first offense, so comparing rates can help you find a more lenient provider.
- Ask about accident forgiveness. Some insurers offer accident or violation forgiveness programs that may waive a first offense or prevent a rate increase for minor infractions.
- Take a defensive driving course. Completing an approved class may earn you a discount with some insurance companies, which could help offset any rate increase.
- Consider increasing your deductible. If your insurer raises your premium due to the ticket, raising your deductible could lower your monthly cost. Just be sure you can afford the higher out-of-pocket expense in case of a claim.
How can you avoid a distracted driving violation?
The simplest solution: Keep the phone out of reach while driving. But if you rely on your smartphone for navigation, music, or communication, consider these tips to stay focused and avoid a violation:
- Use your phone’s Do Not Disturb feature while driving. It will silence notifications and reduce temptation.
- Invest in hands-free technology. If you need to take calls while on the road, this will allow you to do it legally and safely.
- Pull over safely.If you must send a message or check your phone in an urgent situation, do it safely to protect yourself and others on the road.
While a texting-while-driving ticket can feel like a small mistake, the financial impact can be long-lasting. Take proactive steps to understand your insurer’s policies around distracted driving, and build safe habits behind the wheel for your safety and the safety of everyone who shares the road. Your wallet will also thank you.