Speeding in Wyoming? Here’s How It Affects Insurance

Is a Speeding Ticket in Wyoming a Big Deal for Automobile Insurance?

While a single speeding ticket for a few miles over the limit might not get your car impounded, it can definitely catch the attention of your insurance company. Insurance companies see speeding tickets as indicators of riskier driving behavior, which translates to a higher chance of accidents and potential claims. Consequently, a speeding ticket can lead to an increase the cost your vehicle insurance.

How Much Will a Speeding Ticket Raise My Auto Insurance in Wyoming?

The exact amount a speeding ticket will raise your insurance in Wyoming depends on several factors, including:

• The severity of the speeding violation: A ticket for exceeding the speed limit by a few miles will likely have a smaller impact than a ticket for reckless driving.
• Your driving history: A clean driving record can help offset the negative impact of a single speeding ticket. However, if you have previous violations on your record, the increase might be more significant.
• Your age: Younger drivers typically pay more for car insurance, and a speeding ticket can further exacerbate this cost.
• Your car: The type of vehicle you drive can also influence the cost of insurance.

Does Every Speeding Ticket Affect Insurance Rates in Wyoming?

Not all speeding tickets are created equal. Here’s a breakdown of how speeding tickets in Wyoming might impact your insurance:

• Minor speeding violations (1-10 mph over the limit): These might have a minimal impact on your auto insurance, potentially leading to increases around 31%.
• Moderate speeding violations (11-29 mph over the limit): The impact becomes more substantial, with potential increases still around 31%.
• Major speeding violations (30 mph or more over the limit): Expect significant hikes in the price of auto insurance, potentially over 31%. These violations might also be considered reckless driving and come with additional penalties which could include filing for an SR22.

These are just estimates, and your insurance company will assess your specific situation to determine the rate of your car insurance.

How Long Does a Speeding Ticket Stay on My Record and Impact My Insurance? 

Speeding tickets typically stay on your driving record in Wyoming for four years. During this period, your insurance company can consider it when giving you an auto insurance quote. However, the impact lessens over time. Generally, the fresher the violation, the higher the weight it carries for the cost for insurance.

Can I Avoid a Rate Increase After Getting a Speeding Ticket in Wyoming?

Unfortunately, there’s no guaranteed way to completely avoid a rate increase after a speeding ticket. However, there are some strategies you can consider:

• Fight the ticket in court: If you believe the ticket was issued in error, contesting it in court might be an option. However, consult with a lawyer to understand the potential risks and rewards of this approach.
• Complete defensive driving courses: Some insurance companies offer discounts for completing defensive driving courses after a traffic violation. Check with your insurer to see if this option is available.
• Shop around for new quotes: After a waiting period (typically a year), consider shopping around for inexpensive car insurance quotes from different companies. Some insurers might be more forgiving of a single speeding violation compared to your current provider.

What Should I Do After Getting a Speeding Ticket in Wyoming to Minimize Insurance Impact?

Pay the ticket promptly: This demonstrates responsibility to your insurance company and avoids late fees or potential license suspension.
Contact your insurance company: Inform them about the ticket as soon as possible. While they might not be thrilled, transparency is always better than them finding out later.
Ask about defensive driving courses: As mentioned earlier, some insurance companies offer car insurance discounts for completing approved defensive driving courses after a speeding violation.
Maintain a clean driving record: The best way to minimize the long-term impact of a speeding ticket is to avoid getting any more tickets. Practice safe driving habits and obey the speed limits.

Speeding in Wyoming might seem like a harmless act, but it can have a significant impact on the cost of your automobile insurance. By understanding how speeding tickets affect auto insurance in Wyoming, taking proactive steps after a violation, and maintaining a clean driving record, you can minimize the financial repercussions and keep your auto insurance costs under control. Remember, driving safely is not just about avoiding tickets; it’s about protecting yourself, your passengers, and others on the road.