• 14
  • July
    2012

Have you ever gotten a speeding ticket or been cited for a traffic violation? Most people probably have a least one minor traffic violation on their record. A recent study released by LexisNexis and RGA Reinsurance Company shows that a history of traffic violations may indicate a shorter life span. The results of this study revealed that across all age groups and genders, a history of traffic violations, both major and minor, is a predictor for higher all-cause mortality - or the likelihood of one's dying in general, not just in a motor vehicle accident. The greater the number and severity of violations, the more likely a person is to engage in other risky behaviors and die at a younger age.

This study is being used by life insurance carriers to help structure their policies and determine insurance premiums. Life insurance rates already vary greatly depending on a person's age, gender, health history, whether they are a smoker or nonsmoker, and now may also vary based on whether or not they have a history of driving infractions. We already know that car insurance rates increase with car accidents and traffic violations, now it looks like life insurance premiums may do the same. This provides just another reason to obey traffic laws and stay safe on our roadways. It not only saves lives, but can also help to save you money.

Source: Risky Driving History Forecasts a Shorter Lifespan: LexisNexis(R) Motor Vehicle Record Study Raises a Flag for Motorists and the Insurance Industry; www.businesswire.com; 10 July 2012