Can a traffic citation affect insurance rates?

Traffic citations can indeed lead to higher insurance premiums, making it crucial for drivers to understand the implications of receiving such citations. Insurance companies commonly assess an individual's driving record when determining rates, and citations serve as indicators of risk. When an individual receives a citation, it suggests that they may be more likely to engage in risky driving behavior, which can lead to increased premiums.

Insurance providers often categorize traffic violations into minor and major offenses, and even minor violations can impact rates, particularly if they accrue over time or if the driver has a history of prior violations. The accumulation of these citations can demonstrate to insurers that the driver might be a higher risk, leading them to adjust the premium accordingly. Therefore, option B accurately reflects the relationship between traffic citations and potential changes to insurance rates.

The other options do not accurately encompass how insurance companies view driving records. While major offenses undoubtedly have a significant impact, even minor citations can contribute to increased rates. Additionally, it is incorrect to claim that insurance companies rely solely on driving history; although that is a critical factor, they also consider other variables like the driver's demographic information and the type of vehicle driven.