Responsible driving habits not only keep you and others safe on the road, but also help you secure affordable auto insurance. Insurance providers review your driving record to determine how much your premiums will be. The following guide highlights how your record is assessed to help you understand the cost of your coverage.

How Do Driving Records Determine Auto Insurance Rates?

The premium is determined in the underwriting phase, when your auto insurance carrier checks a summarized version of your moving violation report (MVR). This report provides a history of all of your infractions in the past years, including speeding and DUIs. They will also review information about accidents and whether or not you were at fault. Your age also matters, since young adults are more likely to be involved in accidents.

Based on the number and severity of violations, the company will assign you a risk level. The lower the risk to insure you, the cheaper your premiums will be. Insurance providers generally charge more for people with several infractions because they’re more likely to be involved in accidents and file claims. 

How Long Do Violations Stay on Your Insurance Record?

This varies by state. The average period a speeding ticket stays on drivers’ records nationwide is three years. In Alaska, this period is one year. After this, the ticket is no longer a factor and you could be eligible for lower premiums.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is more serious. In Alaska, this infraction remains on your record for life, but insurance companies typically only consider cases within the past three to five years.

Some companies reward drivers with discounted coverage if they don’t get tickets or are involved in at-fault accidents for five consecutive years. 

Associated Insurance Services in Anchorage, AK, specializes in helping individuals secure comprehensive and budget-friendly coverage. They’ve partnered with several highly rated providers to offer you the best coverage options at the most competitive rates. Even if your record has a few hits, you can count on the team to get you reliable vehicle protection. Call (907) 349-2229 to request a quote, or learn more about auto insurance online.