Recently a client asked if her auto insurance premium was going to go up for an “expired inspection sticker” ticket.
Sadly, the answer is: yes.
In Massachusetts, a citation for an expired vehicle inspection sticker is the equivalent, in auto insurance citation points, of a moving violation.
According to the MA Department of Insurance:
Surcharge points are incurred if you:
- cause an at-fault accident
- are convicted of or pay a fine for a traffic law violation
- are assigned to an alcohol education program
An expired inspection sticker is considered “pay(ing) a fine for a traffic law violation.”
The ticket was for $40; her auto insurance will go up about 10% (appx. $60) over the next three years and diminish the following three.
She is going to appeal the ticket because it only expired as of March 1st.
She feels due to the harsh winter, the severeness of the insurance surcharge, the short amount of time from when it expired, and her fixed income, she should not have to pay.
We will let you know how she makes out.
Stay tuned …
In the meantime, take a look at your MASS Vehicle Inspection Sticker — Don’t let it lapse!
Click for: Massachusetts Vehicle Inspection Station Locations