Find out how a traffic ticket affects your auto insurance rates.

The red and blue lights start flashing, the siren starts blaring, and your heart starts racing. You've been pulled over for a traffic violation. You're given a ticket, and you're sent on your way. However, the consequences of your traffic ticket don't end there. Even the tiniest traffic ticket affects your insurance rates. Stay safe on the road to keep your insurance rates low, and learn how a traffic ticket can affect your auto insurance rates. Minor Violation. Even the smallest traffic ticket can negatively affect your auto insurance rates. Not wearing your seat belt can amount to as much as a five percent increase in your insurance. Be wary of your driving habits and follow the law. Even the smallest infractions can have an impact on your insurance rates. Moderate Infraction. When you up the ante and drive recklessly, you not only break traffic laws, but you also put innocent lives in danger. Moderate traffic violations like speeding or weaving in and out of traffic at high speeds, can bring a hefty traffic ticket and increase your insurance rates significantly. Speeding 16 miles per hour over the speed limit can incur an increase of almost 30 percent, and reckless driving can boost your rates by as much as 85 percent. Keep your rates low and drive safely. Serious Offense. One of the worst things you can do is drink and drive. It's extremely dangerous and in many cases, it's lethal for drivers and innocent bystanders alike. Drunk driving is not taken lightly. It's a serious offense that could even result in jail time. If you're caught driving under the influence (DUI), you're not only looking at an expensive ticket, but your insurance rates skyrocket. On average, policies increase by as much as 94 percent, and in some instances, they can even be as high as a 334 percent increase. Be smart and never drive under the influence. Drive safely and abide by all traffic laws to avoid a traffic ticket, and keep your auto insurance rates low. East End Insurance Agency has you covered. Located in Southold, New York, contact us for all your personal and commercial insurance needs.