What is this conviction surcharge thing on my insurance?

Claims & Dispute Resolution Topics
1

Hi everyone. My car insurance premium just went up, and when I asked for details, they gave me the usual ‘inflation’ stuff. But then I saw this in my policy:

‘Conviction Surcharge: Your policy includes a conviction surcharge. Chargeable convictions suggest a higher risk of claims in the future. Convictions may increase your premium and can stay on your policy for up to 36 months. The additional premium and related vehicle details are listed in your policy renewal declarations.’

Are they talking about a criminal conviction? My record is completely clean. The only thing I can think of is a minor accident last year where I was rear-ended, but the other person was clearly at fault.

Has anyone else dealt with this?

EDIT: My wife got a speeding ticket recently.

2

You should just call them and ask.

3

Diegocontreras said:
You should just call them and ask.

Forget calling them—try shopping around with other companies like Progressive or State Farm. Loyalty just costs you more these days.

4

Honestly, why not just call the insurance company directly? Seems faster than asking here.

5

Davi said:
Honestly, why not just call the insurance company directly? Seems faster than asking here.

A lot of people ask questions like this online first. It’s pretty common now.

6

Convictions usually mean things like speeding tickets, DUIs, or other traffic violations. You should call your insurer—they can tell you exactly what it is and how it’s impacting your rates. Just know it sticks with you for a few years even if you switch companies.

7

What did they say when you called?

8

Shannon said:
What did they say when you called?

Turns out my wife got a speeding ticket.

9

Briar said:

Shannon said:
What did they say when you called?

Turns out my wife got a speeding ticket.

Well, that’s your answer. A ticket equals higher insurance. It’s how it works.

10

Briar said:

Shannon said:
What did they say when you called?

Turns out my wife got a speeding ticket.

Yep. Paying a ticket is basically pleading guilty to the violation. That increases your risk in the eyes of the insurance company, so your premium goes up. Happens to everyone.

11

Convictions in this context mean traffic violations, like speeding tickets or accidents where you’re found at fault.

12

Looks like your wife’s speeding ticket is the reason. Fighting the ticket and getting it dismissed could have saved you from the rate hike.

13

A conviction just means a ticket or traffic violation.

14

Morgan said:
A conviction just means a ticket or traffic violation.

Not exactly—a ticket is just the charge. You’re only convicted if a judge finds you guilty.

15

Leith said:

Morgan said:
A conviction just means a ticket or traffic violation.

Not exactly—a ticket is just the charge. You’re only convicted if a judge finds you guilty.

If it’s showing on your driving record, then it’s a conviction.

16

In insurance terms, convictions mean traffic tickets or moving violations, not criminal charges. Something like a DUI might show up if it’s related to driving, though.

17

Some states let you take a driving safety course to avoid having a ticket go on your record. It’s worth asking about if this ever happens again.

18

Sometimes this can be tied to an at-fault accident, even if it wasn’t intentional. Best to clarify directly with the company.

19

It’s just insurance-speak for getting caught doing something wrong on the road, like speeding or running a red light. You can fight tickets to avoid this.