Every driver has witnessed questionable behavior on the road—someone weaving through traffic at high speeds, another inching along so slowly they become a hazard, or even drivers who ignore the rules altogether. While these actions may be frustrating or even dangerous, what really matters to your insurance company is how these behaviors reflect risk. The more risk you pose, the higher your premiums climb. And unfortunately, some violations can follow you for years, making your car insurance far more expensive than you ever expected.
So, what are the worst mistakes you can make behind the wheel when it comes to your insurance rates? Let’s take a closer look.
Speeding vs. Driving Too Slowly
Most people assume speeding is the obvious culprit, and it certainly is a big one. Nationwide, a single speeding ticket raises insurance costs by about 23%, which equals an average of $340 more per year. That penalty usually lingers for three years, meaning one ticket could cost you more than $1,000 over time.
But driving too slowly can also raise eyebrows with insurers. Believe it or not, crawling well below the speed limit can increase your rates by about 21%, or around $300 annually. Why? Because driving too slowly can signal unsafe behavior, cause traffic disruptions, or even trigger accidents. While the financial difference between speeding and driving too slowly isn’t huge, speeding still wins as the pricier offense—but both are costly reminders that driving at the right speed matters.
The Overlooked Danger: Driving With a Suspended License
One violation that surprises many drivers is getting caught behind the wheel with a suspended license. At first glance, it may not seem as severe as reckless driving or causing an accident, but insurance companies view it as a major red flag. On average, this violation can raise your premiums by over 60%, adding more than $900 per year to your bill.
Why so steep? To insurers, a suspended license represents irresponsibility, disregard for legal requirements, and potentially a history of other serious issues. In short, they see it as a sign that you’re a high-risk driver, which is why the penalty is so severe.
Reckless Driving vs. DUI
When it comes to serious violations, reckless driving and driving under the influence sit near the top of the list. Both are dangerous, both carry heavy legal consequences, and both will make your insurance rates skyrocket.
Reckless driving typically increases premiums by over 70%, often translating to an additional $1,000 or more each year. A DUI, however, tends to push those rates even higher, sometimes by just $50 more annually—but the financial cost is only part of the story. DUIs also bring court fees, potential license suspension, mandatory classes, and long-term consequences that can haunt your record for years. In this matchup, the DUI edges out reckless driving as the more expensive and damaging mistake, but either one will leave your wallet reeling.
The Most Expensive Mistake: Hit and Run
Finally, we arrive at the worst offense of them all: leaving the scene of an accident. A hit-and-run violation sends insurance premiums soaring by an average of 82%, and in some states, the increase is even more shocking. In Hawaii, for example, drivers can see their rates nearly quadruple after such an offense.
From an insurer’s perspective, this isn’t just risky—it’s one of the most irresponsible things a driver can do. Fleeing the scene not only violates the law but also demonstrates a disregard for safety and accountability. The financial penalties are crushing, but the legal repercussions can be even worse, with possible jail time and a permanent mark on your driving record.
Why These Penalties Last So Long
It’s important to understand that insurance companies don’t just punish you for a year and then move on. Most violations remain on your driving record for at least three years, which means you’ll be paying elevated rates for a long time after a single mistake. Some serious offenses, such as DUIs or hit-and-runs, can stick with you for even longer.
How to Protect Yourself (and Your Wallet)
The best way to avoid steep insurance hikes is to stay proactive about your driving habits. Follow the speed limit, obey traffic laws, and never drive under the influence. If your license is suspended, don’t risk getting behind the wheel—it’s simply not worth the cost. And above all, if you’re ever involved in an accident, remain at the scene. The short-term fear of legal trouble will never outweigh the long-term financial and legal fallout of fleeing.
Final Thoughts
Insurance premiums are designed to reflect the level of risk you bring to the road. Minor violations like speeding or driving too slowly will cost you a few hundred dollars a year, but major offenses like reckless driving, DUIs, or hit-and-runs can add thousands to your expenses—and damage your reputation as a driver. In the end, safe driving doesn’t just protect lives, it protects your wallet too. Staying responsible behind the wheel is the surest way to keep your premiums low and your peace of mind high.
