Candace Baker, Car Insurance Writer
@candacebaker
Car insurance goes up by an average of 44% after an open container violation, though the exact amount depends on the policyholder's state and insurance company. For example, drivers in Michigan see their rates go up by 134% after an open container violation, while rates in Wyoming only go up by 21%.
How Much Insurance Goes Up After an Open Container Violation by Insurer
Company | Avg. Premium Before an Open Container Violation | Avg. Premium After an Open Container Violation | Increase Due to an Open Container Violation |
$718 per year | $1,364 per year | 90% | |
$462 per year | $1,127 per year | 144% | |
$549 per year | $996 per year | 81% | |
$781 per year | $1,104 per year | 41% | |
$487 per year | $1,043 per year | 114% | |
$1,044 per year | $1,431 per year | 37% | |
$890 per year | $1,977 per year | 122% | |
$1,044 per year | $658 per year | 24% | |
$639 per year | $984 per year | 54% |
In most cases, an open container violation will only affect your insurance rate for 3-5 years. During that time, there are steps that you can take to lower your premium. For example, you can check to see what discounts your insurer offers, like a pay-in-full or defensive driving discount. You should also consider switching insurers to see if you can find a better deal elsewhere.
To learn more, check out WalletHub's guide to what affects car insurance premiums.