When I was 16 and before I even got my driver’s license, I got a ticket for reckless driving, another ticket for not stopping after getting involved in an accident, and another ticket for speeding. It has been five years already. I want to find out if these tickets will affect my car insurance?

Marian

Stamford, CT

For the most part, these kind of situation will not affect your quest to buy car insurance. Most of the insurance providers only research the last 3 years on your motor vehicle record. There are some insurance providers that will research the last five years on your motor vehicle record. There is an extremely small minority of insurance carriers that will research the last 7 years of your motor vehicle history. Again, that is an extremely small number of companies. You may contact your car insurance company to verify how long they check back for motor vehicle driving record

What would the penalty be if I drive alone in the state of Virginia with just a learner’s permit?

Alan

Thank you for asking, Alan.

According to the Virginia driver’s manual, a minor may only be permitted to drive if he is accompanied by a a licensed driver of at least 21 years of age. A driver accompanying you may be 18 years of age if if she or he is your legal guardian.

Your legal guardian accompanying you and monitoring your ability to drive a vehicle must be legally permitted to drive and holds a valid driver’s license.

It is worth 3 points in Virginia and would stay on your driving record for 3 years for the learner’s permit violation.

According to Virginia state law, a Class 2 misdemeanor may have a penalty of confinement to jail for up to six months and a fine of $1000.

You will need to contact the court in the ticket that you received to verify and check what the penalties you would be facing. You may also get an advised from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles regarding the penalties associated with the violation.

Goodluck!

MariCAR