Your driving record does count against you. You cannot erase the past, but you can improve in the future. The number one reason people have a bad driving record is speeding. Make sure you leave enough time to arrive on time without speeding. Do not think the police will not stop you for going 5 or 10 miles over the speed limit. They can and will stop you. Some states have a minimal speeding ticket rate as high as $120, so that is money in their pocket not yours.
Construction and school zones are the two most important areas to be extra cautious. The fines and points are often doubled in these areas. Remember just because you do not see the police car doesn’t mean there is not a traffic camera in use.
Perform the monthly vehicle maintenance. Check those head lights, taillights, turn signals, horn, and a license plate that is not covered in mud. Those nonmoving violations add up quickly.
Always drive defensively and error on the side of caution. Do not allow road rage to override your good sense. Someone cuts you off, smile and wave with all five fingers. Their bad choices do not have to affect your reaction.
Most insurance companies do not go back more than 3 years, so remember this when you are shopping for insurance. If your driving mistakes were made 2 ½ years ago, wait until the 3 years is up before you shop for new insurance. If you like your current insurance, call them when your driving record clears and have them run the new driving report. Agents do not have time to check driving records, so unless you request an updated policy you will still be paying for those driving mistakes from years ago.
Learn from your mistakes and try to never repeat them.