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Traffic violations are unfortunately inevitable for most drivers, and their insurance rates suffer because of it. According to the legal team at Thomas W. Smothers, Attorney At Law, in High Point, NC, it’s important to contest questionable violations to keep your record clean and your rates down. A traffic ticket lawyer can help you explore options to have damaging tickets dismissed, as well as avoiding the significant consequences even the smallest infraction brings.

How Do Traffic Violations Affect Your Insurance Rate?

1. Premium Increases

traffic ticket lawyerWhen you make a mistake driving, you label yourself as a liability to your insurance company. Whether it’s DUI charges or a seat belt violation, they have to assume you’re a bigger risk and will raise your premium accordingly. Raises are judged by the severity of the crime, and repeat offenses lead to more significant raises. On a month-to-month basis, even a 5% increase can become a heavy burden, which is why it’s important to speak with a traffic ticket lawyer. While they have no say with the insurance company, they can work to get your ticket dismissed in court.

2. Loss of Rate Decreases

Gradually, insurance carriers will consider lowering your rates once you’ve proven you’re a safe, responsible driver. This reward takes time, and, if you have traffic violations, you’re not likely to receive it. While you can redeem yourself, moderate- and high-impact charges are difficult to forgive, and insurance companies usually aren’t willing to take a risk on a former offender.

3. Termination of Coverage

If you’ve made one too many mistakes, the insurance company will ultimately see you as an unnecessary risk regardless of how much you’re paying for coverage. If they drop you, you’ll have to find another provider, but this can be difficult with a tarnished driving record. A traffic ticket lawyer can help you explore alternatives such as safe driving courses and traffic school to gain favor with courts, with the end goal being expungement of low-impact past infractions.

If you’re facing a traffic ticket, turn to the legal team at Thomas W. Smothers, Attorney At Law. A traffic ticket lawyer can help you explore options to keep it off your record to avoid rate hikes and address other violation-related issues you’re facing. Call (336) 885-1240 today to schedule a consultation, and visit their website to learn about their criminal law services.

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