The financial implications of an illegal cell phone use ticket should give any driver pause.
The enactment of AB-47, Distracted Driving, the amendment to CA Vehicle Code (VC) Section 23123.5, Driving Offenses, on 1 July 2021, allows an assessment of one NOTS point for a second illegal cell phone use conviction or paid fine within three years of the first.
Therefore, drivers should dispute every mobile phone use ticket as if it is their second. At the very least, they should consult a traffic attorney about the situation to determine the best approach.
The Financial Ramifications to Your Auto Insurance Premium
Bankrate.com tells us:
“The average cost of car insurance in California is $2,573 per year for full coverage and $638 per year for minimum coverage.”
Remember, this is the average. Drivers in Los Angeles will pay much more than drivers in Bishop ($2,008) or Benton ($2,230).
“Drivers in Los Angeles, according to our research, pay an average rate for full coverage insurance of $3,508, 36 percent more than the state average.”
In fact, where you live is only one of several factors that affect how much you pay for auto insurance, such as miles driven to work or school, marital status, gender, and many others. Another crucial factor is age, and drivers with a teen on their policy pay even more:
“California parents adding a 16-year-old driver to their full coverage auto insurance policy can expect an average premium of $6,189 per year.”
Depending on those factors, you could pay more or less for auto insurance, but your driving record is the most significant factor affecting your premium.
If you have a paid fine or conviction for a moving violation will raise your premium. One moving violation could mean losing your “good driver’s discount” of 20%. That’s $514.60 per year for three years, or $1,543.80.
Therefore, getting a lawyer to examine your case is a wise choice.
Contact Bigger & Harman Today
If you are accused of illegal cell phone use in Porterville or Visalia Courthouse in Tulare County, contact the Bakersfield traffic ticket team of Bigger & Harman, APC. Give us a call today at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español (661) 349-9755.
During the past decade or more, the traffic ticket defense team of Bigger & Harman has been asked to defend more than 20,000 tickets. We have the experience necessary to get the best possible resolution for you and your family.
Also, consider using our handy contact form to schedule a consultation.
Email: attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com.
References:
AB-47, Distracted Driving & CA VC Section 23123.5, Driving Offenses.
The Average cost of car insurance in CA for 2024—Bankrate.com.