Every driver has a driving record. This record is an electronic file that stores data about your driving history and includes a record of driving violations.
When you visit the Department of Motor Vehicles, you can access to this record. The DMV can tell you what type of violations you have. These might include speeding or reckless driving citations, for example.
The more violations you have, the higher risk driver you are. This status can impact your auto insurance. It can limit your access to carriers or, for some, it can lead to higher rates on your plan.
What's On Your Driving Record?
All states allow drivers to learn what is on their driving record. In some cases, you may be able to visit the online website for your DMV to get a copy of your record. In most cases, you need to visit your local office. You may have to pay a fee to access the data there.
It may be a good idea to get a copy of your record if you have moving violations. It can also be important to know what is in your file if you are a commercial driver.
That said, most drivers will not need to check their record often.
Why Does It Matter?
Auto insurance agencies view your driving record as a tool. They can use that tool to determine how risky of a driver you are. Those who have numerous tickets and moving violations are high-risk drivers. To insure you, car insurance carriers charge a premium based on risk. High-risk drivers will usually pay more than safe drivers. For this reason, those with a number of points on their driving record may seem like a higher risk driver.
What Can You Do About It?
You cannot remove points or violations from your record in most cases. Sometimes the court will do so if you petition them to. However, there are other steps you can take to reduce the impact on your auto insurance.
- Ask your insurer if you can take a safe driving course. This may help you get a lower rate.
- Wait. Over time, points come off your record if you do not have new ones added.
- Work hard to minimize your driving risks. Don't drive after drinking alcohol or when you are too tired.
Work with your Ten Eyck Group agent. Discuss what your rates are. Find out if your driving record is impacting your rates. Then talk to your agent about the best way to get affordable coverage.