How Much Is A Speeding Ticket In California? Wondering about the cost of a speeding ticket in California? According to the Judicial Branch of California, the total fines and penalties for a traffic ticket, including base fines and surcharges, can range from $238 to $490, depending on the speed at which you were caught. Additional fees and penalties may also apply based on your location.
But, getting a speeding ticket in California might appear minor initially. The base fine for exceeding the speed limit starts at $35, escalating up to $100 based on the severity of the offense. However, this initial cost does not encompass additional penalties, court fees, or potential hikes in insurance premiums.
Impact of a Speeding Ticket on California Car Insurance Rates
Receiving a speeding ticket in California can have significant financial repercussions beyond the initial fine. According to NerdWallet’s 2022 rates study, the average 35-year-old California driver faces a 37% increase in annual premiums for full coverage car insurance after just one speeding ticket. Full coverage typically includes liability coverage, uninsured motorist protection, and comprehensive and collision insurance.
In practical terms, the total cost of a speeding ticket in California can exceed 35 times the base fine of $35. After factoring in an average increase of $741 per year in insurance premiums and additional state fees of up to $490, the cumulative financial impact can total around $1,231. This substantial increase reflects not only the immediate consequences of the ticket but also ongoing higher insurance costs.
However, understanding these potential costs underscores the importance of safe and responsible driving practices to avoid not only fines but also the long-term financial burden of increased insurance premiums.
| MPH | Base Fee | Total Fee |
| 1 to 15 | $35 | $238 |
| 16 to 25 | $70 | $367 |
| 26 to 99 | $100 | $490 |
Financial Impact of a Speeding Ticket on California Drivers
As of May 2024, data from Quadrant Information Services indicates that California drivers with clean records pay an average of $2,633 annually for full coverage car insurance and $645 for minimum coverage. However, after receiving a speeding ticket, these costs can surge to $3,625 for full coverage and $881 for minimum coverage, reflecting increases of 38% and 37%, respectively. These hikes are significantly higher than the national average increase of 21%.
Meanwhile, the financial consequences of a speeding ticket in California can be substantial, potentially costing you hundreds to thousands of dollars. Beyond the immediate financial impact, a minor speeding violation typically results in one point added to your driving record. Accumulating four points within a year can lead to a license suspension, with six points in two years or eight points in three years also resulting in suspension. Moreover, there are stricter penalties for speeding violations that exceed 100 mph.
Average Car Insurance Rate Increases After a Speeding Ticket in California
After receiving a speeding ticket in California, the average car insurance cost can jump to $3,790 per year, reflecting an increase of $1,104. Our study, which analyzed rates from over 20 car insurance companies, found that having just one speeding ticket on your record can lead to an annual increase of more than $1,100 in insurance premiums.
How to Reduce the Cost of a California Speeding Ticket
If you receive a speeding ticket in California, there are several strategies you can use to reduce the associated costs potentially:
- Contesting the Ticket: If you choose to contest the ticket and are found guilty, you can negotiate with the court to try and lower the fine.
- Financial Hardship: If you’re facing financial difficulties and cannot afford to pay the full amount, inform the court about your situation. You may be required to provide details about your financial status. Depending on the county, this can be done online or over the phone.
- Payment Plans and Alternatives: The court may offer you more time to pay, reduce your fine, or allow you to perform community service instead. A judge will review your case and decide based on the information provided.
- It’s crucial to address your ticket promptly. Ignoring it can result in additional penalties, such as a $100 fine for failure to appear (civil assessment) and suspension of your driver’s license.
Finding the Cheapest Car Insurance After a Speeding Ticket
According to a cost analysis by Forbes Advisor, USAA offers the cheapest car insurance for California drivers with a speeding ticket on their record. However, USAA is limited to military members, veterans, and their families. In fact, Mercury and Wawanesa are the next most affordable options for those who do not qualify for USAA.
How Much is a First-Time Speeding Ticket in California?
Getting a speeding ticket for the first time in California can set you back between $238 and $490. The exact fine amount hinges on how much you exceeded the speed limit and the specific county where the ticket was issued.
In addition to the immediate fine, you can expect your car insurance rates to increase following a speeding ticket. To mitigate this financial impact, it’s wise to compare quotes from multiple insurance companies to find the best rates and coverage that suit your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a Speeding Ticket in California for going over 100?
The stakes increase significantly if you’re caught driving over 100 mph. In such cases, the penalties are much more severe, including a fine of approximately $900 and the addition of two points to your license.
How much is a Speeding Ticket in California for Going 20 mph Over the Speed Limit in California?
If you’re caught driving 20 mph over the speed limit in California, you can expect a speeding ticket with a fine of around $367. In addition to the fine, a conviction for this violation will add one point to your driving record.
The stakes are even higher if you’re caught driving over 100 mph. In such cases, the penalties are much more severe, including a fine of approximately $900 and the addition of two points to your license.
How Much is a Speeding Ticket in California Going 15 Over?
If you’re caught driving 15 mph over the speed limit in California, you can expect a speeding ticket with a typical fine of around $70.
What are the best Insurance Companies for Drivers with Speeding tickets in California?
Mercury and Progressive stand out as two of the best car insurance options for California drivers who have speeding tickets. As of May 2024, both companies offer average rates that are significantly lower than the state’s average for drivers with similar infractions.
