A citation for using a mobile device while driving in California can have repercussions beyond the immediate fine. The primary concern following such a violation is the potential impact on automobile insurance premiums. This impact hinges on how the infraction is categorized and the driver’s existing record.
The consequences of traffic violations on insurance rates are well-documented. Insurers assess risk based on a driver’s history; a history of violations signals increased risk and typically leads to higher premiums. Historically, moving violations have always been a key factor in insurance risk assessment, reflecting the correlation between unsafe driving behaviors and the likelihood of accidents.