A speeding ticket in California can seem manageable at first but often involves additional costs like court fees and higher insurance premiums. Here's a detailed breakdown:

Speeding Ticket Costs in California

The total cost of a ticket depends on how far over the speed limit you were driving:

| MPH Over Limit | Base Fine | Total Cost (with Fees) |
|---------------------|---------------|----------------------------|
| 1 to 15 mph | $35 | $238 |
| 16 to 25 mph | $70 | $367 |
| 26+ mph | $100 | $490 |

Additional Fees:
- Speeding in highway construction zones adds $35.
- Fines and surcharges can vary by location.

Impact on Insurance Rates

The long-term cost of a speeding ticket often comes from increased car insurance rates:

• Average increase: A speeding ticket can raise premiums by 37% for full coverage.
• Cost Example: A $35 ticket can result in $1,231 of additional costs over several years when insurance hikes are included.

| Driver Profile | Before Ticket (Full Coverage) | After Ticket (Full Coverage) |
|------------------------|-----------------------------------|----------------------------------|
| 35-year-old drivers | $1,984 | $2,725 |
| 20-year-old drivers | $3,677 | $4,759 |

Options After Receiving a Speeding Ticket

• Pay the Fine
• Accept the penalty and point on your license.

• Insurance premiums will likely increase.

• Traffic Safety School

• Prevents points on your driving record (but you still pay the fine).

• Eligible if you have a valid license and were driving a private vehicle.

• Contest the Ticket

• Plead not guilty and request a court hearing.
• Judges may reduce the fine based on your circumstances or evidence.

Cheapest Insurance Companies Post-Ticket

It’s wise to shop around after a ticket, as some insurers penalize violations more than others.

| Company | Average Rate (35-Year-Old) | Increase After Ticket |
|-------------------------|---------------------------------|---------------------------|
| National General | $1,914 | +$144 |
| Kemper | $2,447 | +$363 |
| CSAA (AAA) | $2,161 | +$450 |
| Wawanesa | $2,118 | +$628 |

For 20-Year-Old Drivers:
- Cheapest options: National General ($2,878) and Geico ($2,922).
- Rates can vary significantly between companies; shop around for the best deal.

Tips to Minimize Costs After a Ticket

• Traffic School: Avoids points on your record, potentially saving on insurance.
• Shop Around: Compare rates from multiple insurers to find a better deal.
• Maintain a Clean Record: Avoid further violations to prevent future rate increases.

By understanding these costs and exploring your options, you can minimize the financial impact of a speeding ticket in California.

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