Does Paying a Ticket Fine Affect Your Insurance
If you’ve recently paid a traffic ticket, you might be wondering: “Will this affect my insurance rates?” Yes, it can. However, it depends on the type of ticket, your driving history, and how your insurance provider evaluates risk.
At Ron Johnston Insurance, we get this question all the time. Let’s break it down clearly so you understand when and how a paid ticket can impact your car insurance in Ontario.
Related Article: How to Reduce Car Insurance in 2025
Not All Tickets Are Equal
In Ontario, driving offences are categorized by severity. Insurance companies don’t treat every ticket the same.
1. Minor Convictions
These include:
- Speeding (under 50 km/h over the limit)
- Failure to stop at a stop sign or red light
- Improper lane changes
- Failure to signal
Impact: One minor conviction may not increase your premium significantly, especially if you have a clean record. But multiple offences over a short time can raise red flags.
2. Major Convictions
These include:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding 50 km/h or more
- Driving without insurance
- Failing to report an accident
Impact: Major convictions will likely lead to a noticeable premium increase and may also affect your eligibility with standard insurers.
3. Criminal Convictions
These include:
- Impaired driving (alcohol or drugs)
- Driving while suspended
- Hit and run
Impact: These are serious and will have the most severe consequences, including high-risk classification and potential policy cancellation.
Related Article: Does Liability Insurance Cover Hit and Run?
What Happens When You Pay a Ticket?
Paying a ticket is an admission of guilt, which means the offence is added to your driving record. That record is accessible to insurance companies, who use it to assess risk.
Here’s what typically happens:
- The ticket goes on your record
- Your insurer reviews your record during renewal (or mid-term, in some cases)
- If the offence affects your risk profile, your premium goes up
Even if you’re not in an accident, the ticket can influence your rates.
Related Article: What to Do After a Car Accident: Navigating the Claims Process
How Long Do Tickets Stay on Your Record?
In Ontario:
- Most convictions stay on your driving record for 3 years from the conviction date
- Insurance providers may look at the last 3–6 years of your driving history
The more time that passes without new violations, the less impact that old ticket will have.
What About Parking Tickets?
Good news: parking tickets don’t affect your insurance. They’re not considered moving violations and don’t appear on your driving abstract.
However, if you fail to pay them, you won’t be able to renew your licence plate sticker or vehicle registration.
Do All Insurance Companies Treat Tickets the Same?
Not exactly. Each insurer has its own underwriting policies, but here’s what’s common:
- 1 minor ticket: Often no change or a small increase
- 2+ minor tickets: Moderate to high rate increase
- 1 major or criminal conviction: High-risk rating, steep premium hike, or non-renewal
That’s why working with a broker like Ron Johnston Insurance matters. We shop with multiple insurers to find the best fit based on your situation.
How Much Can One Ticket Increase Your Insurance?
Premium increases vary depending on the offence, your previous record, and your insurance provider. On average:
- One minor ticket might raise your premium by 5% to 15%
- One major ticket can raise it 20% to 50% or more
- A criminal conviction can more than double your premium
If you already had discounts for being a safe driver, you could lose those too.
Should You Fight the Ticket?
In many cases, yes, it’s worth considering.
If you believe the ticket was unjustified, or if the consequences are severe (e.g., a speeding ticket 49 km/h over the limit), disputing it could save you money long-term.
You can:
- Request a trial and plead your case in court
- Hire a paralegal to help reduce the charge
Even getting the ticket reduced to a lesser offence can lower its impact on your insurance.
Tips to Prevent Future Rate Increases
- Drive defensively: Follow the rules, stay alert, and avoid distractions
- Be mindful of speed zones: Especially in school zones or construction areas
- Stay updated on traffic laws: Some infractions, like distracted driving, carry harsher penalties now
- Use a telematics app: Some insurers offer discounts if you prove safe driving through usage-based insurance
- Bundle your insurance: Combining auto and home policies can offset premium increases
Related Article: What Is a Deductible in Car Insurance
How Ron Johnston Insurance Can Help
When you get a ticket, we don’t just quote your renewal—we help you navigate your options:
- We’ll compare multiple insurers to find competitive pricing
- We’ll explain how the ticket affects your rate now and in the future
- We’ll advise on coverage adjustments if needed
- We’ll advocate for you if you move into a high-risk category
As an independent brokerage serving Ontario for over 30 years, Ron Johnston Insurance puts your needs first, especially when life throws a curveball.
Tickets Do Matter: But You Still Have Options
Paying a ticket isn’t the end of the world, but it can have a ripple effect on your insurance premiums. The type of offence, your driving history, and your insurer’s policies all play a role.
The best way to avoid costly increases? Drive safely, stay informed, and partner with a broker who’s on your side.
Need help after a recent ticket? Contact Ron Johnston Insurance for expert advice and customized coverage options that fit your life and your budget.