So I got pulled over last month for speeding (my bad, I know...) and now my insurance company is basically treating me like I'm some kind of outlaw. They jacked up my rates like crazy, and when I tried shopping around, seems like nobody wants to touch me with a ten-foot pole. It's like one mistake and suddenly I'm the worst driver in Indiana, lol. Has anyone else had this happen? Curious if it's just my luck or if this is pretty common.
Honestly, it's pretty common, but it might not be as bad as you think. I've had a couple tickets over the years, and here's what I've noticed:
- Insurance companies usually spike your rates right after a ticket, but it doesn't last forever. After about 2-3 years, mine dropped back down to normal levels.
- Shopping around right after a ticket isn't always helpful. Most insurers pull the same driving record info, so they're all seeing the same red flags. Waiting a bit might help.
- Have you tried defensive driving courses? I know they're boring and feel like punishment, but some insurers give discounts if you complete one.
- Also, consider tweaking your coverage temporarily—raising deductibles or dropping extras you don't really need can offset the rate hike.
I get the frustration, but from my experience, it's less about treating you like an outlaw and more about risk calculation. Hang in there...it'll get better.
