All posts tagged track record

If you’ve been in an accident or are just wondering how to cut back on insurance expenses, you need to know what is reported on your driving record. Insurance companies are interested in what is in your record for many reasons. Your driving record can negatively impact your insurance rates, and you can even be denied insurance. Like with any big payment, some "urban legends" about what does and doesn’t affect you exist. Be sure you know which is really fact or fiction. See how knowledgeable you are in the examples below.

Fact or Fiction 1: Your Credit Score and Food Stamp Eligibility Affect Your Driving Record

Do you believe that your credit score and assistance program status affect your driving record? Then you are one of many people who would be wrong in this case. Your credit score may affect the type of vehicle you can purchase, but does not affect your privilege to drive any vehicle. This "urban legend" has been around at least since the 1970’s, when many employers began using formal hiring processes. These processes are now commonplace, and include your permission to check your background, driving record, credit report, and ask questions regarding your assistance program(s) eligibility and benefits status.

Fact or Fiction 2: A No-Fault Accident Will Not Be on Your Driving Record

A tree falls into the road while you are driving, and you cannot reasonably avoid it. It hits your car, causing considerable damage. This is not your fault, so it won’t go into your driving record.
Most states require that all accidents, regardless of fault, are recorded in your driving record. The time the accident remains on your record may be less than an at-fault accident. Be sure to check your specific state laws regarding accident reporting and your driving record requirements.

Fact or Fiction 3: Taking a Defensive Driving Course can Expunge My Driving Record

Hitting a light pole, or running over the neighbor’s mailbox may not be the highlight of your day. In these cases, many lesser infractions can be removed from your record by taking a defensive driving course. Halifax auto insurance recommends you take the course in person rather than online to show your dedication. Check with your state regarding removing traffic violations, and how to pay for the class plus any tickets you may have.

Know your driving facts, so you are not caught off-guard by urban fictions! Always check with your state public safety office to find out the exact information that can be retained in your driving record and for how long.