Insurance for high-risk drivers isn’t much different than an average auto insurance policy. The driver and the amount they pay for auto insurance are the main differences. Although it can be difficult, finding insurance for these drivers is not impossible.
Because high-risk drivers are perceived by car insurance companies as more likely to file claims, their premiums are higher. This type of coverage is also known as non-standard insurance.
They aren’t necessarily bad drivers, but their records which typically include anything from moving violations to DUIs to at-fault accidents, make them more expensive to insure.
Who is a High-risk Driver?
A high-risk driver is someone who, compared to the average driver, is considered to be more likely to file insurance claims. When deciding how risky it would be to insure you and how much to charge for coverage, these companies review your driving history.
Based on factors like prior DUI (driving under the influence) convictions, multiple at-fault auto accidents, or a history of moving violations, your insurer will categorize you as high risk.
Because they are seen as bigger risks, they usually pay far higher premiums for auto insurance. Insurers also believe that these drivers have a higher likelihood of missing or making late payments.
How Much Does Insurance for High-risk Drivers Cost?
An average policy for high-risk drivers costs $3,217 annually. With its average annual cost of $2.379, USAA offers the lowest rates, although with restricted eligibility.
To purchase car insurance from USAA, one must be a veteran, military member, or a family member of one of these groups.
What Driving Factors Make You a High-Risk Driver?
Here are common driving factors that make insurance companies consider you part of this category:
- At-fault accidents.
- DUI (Driving Under the Influence).
- Speeding ticket.
- Reckless driving.
- Multiple moving violations.
- Driving with a revoked or suspended license.
- Participating in drag racing.
They look at these things to figure out how much of a risk you are to them.
What Non-Driving Factors Make You a High-Risk Driver?
Here are common non-driving factors:
- Poor credit history.
- Age.
- Experience.
- Location.
- Gender.
- Lapses in insurance coverage.
- Having a high-value car.
- Marital status.
- Claims history.
- Occupation.
These factors determine your risk rating.
Best Insurance Companies for High-risk Drivers
Some of the providers include:
- Geico.
- Safe Auto.
- Nationwide.
- USAA.
- Progressive.
- American Family.
- State Farm.
- Direct Auto.
- Dairyland.
- Allstate.
- Farmers.
- Travelers.
- Country Financial.
- State Farm.
- Westfield.
These are the major companies that offer this coverage.
How to get Insurance for High-risk Driver
Follow the instructions below to obtain this policy:
- Visit the website of one of the prominent insurance providers mentioned above such as Geico at https://www.geico.com/
- Select auto insurance and click on the “Get a Quote” button to start the quote process.
- Provide details about your driving history, your car, and yourself.
- Choose your preferred coverage option that suits your needs. Liability, medical payments, and personal injury protection are important considerations for drivers who pose a high risk.
- Provide the necessary information such as your driving history, any past accidents, and any necessary FR-44 or SR-22 forms (if applicable).
- Review the quote provided and make any necessary modifications to the coverage limits, deductibles, and other details.
Submit your application if the quote meets your needs. You will be guided throughout this procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some frequently asked questions.
How can I Avoid Being Classified as a High-risk Driver?
Make sure you drive safely, raise your credit score, drive less, and never drive while intoxicated to avoid paying the higher rates associated with being classified as a high-risk driver.
For How Long Are You Considered a High-risk Driver?
Depending on your state, moving violations like speeding usually stay on your record for three to five years.
Who are the Highest-risk Drivers?
The drivers that insurance companies deem most likely to file claims are the highest-risk ones; these include:
- Drivers with traffic violations.
- Drivers with poor credit.
- Drivers with a DUI conviction.
- Drivers with accidents on their record.
- Inexperienced teenage drivers.
- Drivers with multiple car insurance claims.
Does Being a High-risk Driver Affect Car Insurance Costs?
In general, premiums for high-risk drivers are higher than those for low-risk drivers. Car insurance companies protect themselves by charging riskier drivers more because these drivers may result in higher claims payouts.
Conclusion
Remember that this is not a legally recognized classification and that each insurer uses a different set of criteria to determine which drivers qualify as high-risk.
People who have not had the best driving records should be aware that they can obtain specialized insurance policies. These plans are intended especially for drivers with a history of accidents, or other risk factors that could lower their insurance risk rating.
Choosing these specific policies helps people manage the cost of insurance premiums while ensuring they have the required coverage.
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