Speeding Tickets: Who Gets Them and How to Avoid Them

Speeding is one of the most common traffic violations in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding was a contributing factor in 26 percent of all fatal crashes in 2019, resulting in 9,478 deaths. Speeding also costs drivers billions of dollars in fines, insurance premiums, and fuel consumption every year. But who are the drivers who get the most speeding tickets? Are there any patterns or trends that can help us understand why some people are more likely to speed than others? Below, the experienced agents from Altra Insurance Services, a premier provider of auto, motorcycle, homeowners, and renters insurance San Diego residents rely on for high-quality service, explore some of the factors that influence the likelihood of getting a speeding ticket, such as age, gender, location, and time of day. We’ll also provide some tips on how to avoid speeding and its consequences.

Age & Gender

The most obvious factors that affect the probability of getting a speeding ticket are the age and gender of the driver. According to various studies and data sources, men tend to get more speeding tickets than women, and younger drivers tend to get more speeding tickets than older drivers. For example:

• According to the Minnesota State Patrol’s ticket database, men of every age get at least 50 percent more speeding tickets than women. In addition, male drivers over age 55 get 200 percent more tickets than their female counterparts.
• According to a report by CBS News, drivers between the ages of 16 and 25 got one third of the speeding tickets in 2017. Men were ticketed 50 percent more often than women across all age groups. 
• A study by Insurify suggests millennials (currently between 27 and 42 years old) are the most dangerous drivers, while baby boomers (currently between 60 and 77 years old) are the safest. Among millennial drivers, 27.31 percent have an at-fault accident or moving violation on their record, 13.60 percent have received a speeding ticket, and 2.53 percent have been convicted of driving under the influence. 

These statistics suggest men are more likely to speed than women because they’re more aggressive, risk-taking, or competitive behind the wheel. They also suggest younger drivers are more likely to speed than older drivers because they’re less experienced, more impulsive, or influenced by peer pressure.

Location & Time

Another factor that influences the chance of getting a speeding ticket is the location and time of driving. Depending on where and when you drive, you may encounter different road conditions, traffic patterns, speed limits, and law enforcement activities. For example:

• According to a study by WalletHub, the states with the strictest speeding enforcement are Delaware, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, and California. The states with the most lenient speeding enforcement are Texas, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Kentucky.
• According to a study by Auto Insurance Center, the months with the highest number of speeding tickets issued are July, August, and June. The months with the lowest number of speeding tickets issued are February, January, and December.
• A study by SafeMotorist.com found the time of day with the highest risk of getting a speeding ticket is between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. on weekdays. The time of day with the lowest risk of getting a speeding ticket is between midnight and 6:00 a.m. on any day.

These statistics indicate drivers are more likely to speed and get caught in areas with higher population density, traffic congestion, or speed enforcement. They also indicate drivers are more likely to speed and get caught during summer months or peak hours when they may be in a hurry or face more distractions.

How to Avoid Speeding Tickets

Speeding isn’t only illegal but also dangerous and costly. Therefore, it’s in your best interest to avoid speeding and getting a ticket. Here are some tips on how to do so:

• Know the speed limit – Always pay attention to the posted speed limit signs and follow them accordingly. If you’re not sure what the speed limit is in an unfamiliar area or road condition, err on the side of caution and drive slower rather than faster.
• Use a speedometer – Check your speedometer regularly and adjust your speed accordingly. If your speedometer isn’t working properly, get it fixed as soon as possible. You can also use a GPS device or an app that shows your speed and alerts you when you’re going over the limit.
• Plan ahead – Give yourself enough time to reach your destination without rushing. Avoid driving when you’re tired, stressed, or distracted. If you encounter traffic, road work, or bad weather, be patient and calm. Don’t speed up to make up for lost time or to pass other vehicles.
• Drive defensively – Be aware of your surroundings and anticipate potential hazards. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles and follow the rules of the road. Don’t engage in aggressive or reckless driving behaviors, such as tailgating, weaving, or racing.
• Respect the law – If you do get pulled over by a police officer for speeding, be polite and cooperative. Pull over to a safe spot, turn off your engine, roll down your window, and keep your hands visible. Don’t argue, lie, or make excuses. Provide your license, registration, and insurance information when asked. Accept the ticket if one is issued and follow the instructions on how to pay or contest it.

Driving at a safe speed provides a number of benefits, not the least of which is the reduced risk of being in an accident. If you’re involved in an accident, it’s essential to have reliable auto insurance National City drivers know they can trust the team from Altra Insurance Services to be there when they need assistance. For a free quote, give us a call today at (619) 404-6311.