How California Compares
California penalizes reckless drivings 13% more than the national average.
California Penalties for Reckless Driving
| Points on License | 4 points |
| Fine Range | $250 - $1000 |
| Time on Record | 5 years |
| SR-22 Required | Yes, for 3 years |
| License Suspension | Up to 30 days |
SR-22 Requirement in California
California requires an SR-22 certificate after a reckless driving. This is a form your insurance company files with the state proving you have coverage.
- • SR-22 filing fee: typically $15-50
- • Required for 3 years
- • Lapse in coverage = license suspension
- • Not all carriers offer SR-22 policies
How to Reduce the Impact
1. Shop Around Immediately
Different carriers penalize reckless drivings differently. One carrier might increase your rate 50% while another only 25%. Get quotes from at least 5 carriers.
3. Take a Defensive Driving Course
California allows insurance discounts for completing an approved defensive driving course, offsetting 5-15% of the increase.
4. Increase Your Deductible
Raising your deductible from $500 to $1,000 can lower your premium by 15-20%, partially offsetting the increase.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does insurance go up after a reckless driving in California?
Insurance typically increases 64.00-86.00% after a reckless driving in California, with an average of 75%. On a $1500/year policy, that's about $1125 more per year.
How long does a reckless driving affect insurance in California?
A reckless driving stays on your California driving record for 5 years and typically affects your insurance rates for the same period.
Do I need SR-22 insurance after a reckless driving in California?
Yes, California requires SR-22 filing for 3 years after a reckless driving.
Find Affordable Insurance After Reckless Driving
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