Traffic Ticket and Insurance Surcharge (how much, costs, transportation)

[vauser]

Folks -
My wife got a speeding ticket (50m on a 35m zone) in VA last week. This is her first ticket in a 7+ year driving record. I called the insurance company and they claim there would be a 140% surcharge. Meaning, if we pay $800 per year, it would go upto $1920. That seems ridiculous. Is that the case?

We have 2 cars but she said that the rates would go up on only 1 car. Please help!

[Hokieed]

I would try jumping ship REALLY fast. That does seem like a ridiculous increase. Tell them you will take your business elsewhere.

And reading this, just after reading about how airlines are starting to charge for EVERYTHING... 25 dollars for an extra bag, 25 dollars for an aisle seat, 35 for an exit row, 5 bucks for a snack, and on and on.... So, it looks like transportation is getting VERY expensive on all fronts.... and I didn't even bring up Fuel costs for our cars. Better start dusting off the bikes.

[MTN]

I think it would only be $1120. If it is $800 for two cars, it would be more like $960. I'd call the insurance company back and ask them exactly how much it will be.

[gnu]

$1920 would be a 240% increase. I'd ask the company for a specific number - but even the 140% seems really high. There are plenty of insurers in the area, so don't feel pressured to stick with them.