How To Get Car Insurance Quotes For High Risk Drivers

If you've made some driving mistakes in the past like DUIs or accidents, you may be labeled a high risk driver by insurers. This means you'll likely need a special type of high risk auto insurance policy.

Getting insurance quotes tailored for risky drivers is key to finding affordable coverage despite your record. This comprehensive guide explains what high risk insurance is, who needs it, how to compare quotes, tips for savings, and what to know when shopping for nonstandard policies.

We'll also look at common questions about high risk auto insurance pricing, eligibility and the process of securing coverage. Read on for a full overview of how higher risk drivers can obtain the mandated liability insurance they need at competitive rates.

What is High Risk Car Insurance?

High risk or nonstandard auto insurance is coverage specifically designed for drivers considered risky, unsafe or otherwise more likely to file claims based on factors like:

  • Recent at-fault accidents or moving violations
  • DUIs or DWIs
  • Limited or poor driving history
  • Lapses in past insurance coverage
  • Less than perfect credit score
  • High mileage vehicles
  • Teenage drivers

Because these drivers pose extra risk, most standard insurance companies either charge very high premiums or decline coverage.

High risk insurance companies specialize in covering higher risk drivers. But premiums are still more expensive than standard insurance since claims are more likely.

Who Needs High Risk Auto Insurance?

You will likely be asked to seek out high risk insurance quotes if:

  • Your previous insurer dropped you due to your record
  • You cannot find affordable coverage with regular insurers
  • You need to file an SR-22 certificate after offenses like DUI
  • You have multiple traffic violations on your record
  • You caused an accident that resulted in major liability claims

Essentially if you are considered an unacceptable risk by mainstream insurers, your only option is pursuing quotes from high risk specialists.

Comparing Quotes for High Risk Policies

Because high risk insurers can charge significantly higher premiums, it is extra important for risky drivers to compare multiple free quotes to find affordable coverage.

Follow these steps when seeking high risk insurance quotes:

  • Research high risk insurance companies in your state
  • Check their eligibility guidelines to see if you qualify
  • Get quotes from a minimum of 3 specialist insurers
  • Compare coverage types, deductibles and premium costs
  • Evaluate add-ons like accident forgiveness
  • Consider getting a quote from a regular insurer as baseline
  • Check for discounts like defensive driver or good student
  • Ask about paying premiums monthly if cash strapped
  • Secure SR-22 certificate from insurer if required

Be extremely thorough and accurate when entering details into online quote tools. Small factors can substantially impact high risk premium costs. Cast a wide net to find the best high risk plan rate.

Tips for Getting the Best High Risk Insurance Rates

Beyond taking time to compare quotes, here are some other tips for high risk drivers to secure the most affordable auto insurance:

  • Take a defensive driver course for a potential discount
  • Opt for lower policy liability limits and higher deductibles to reduce premium costs
  • Ask about discount devices like usage-based telematics to track safe driving habits
  • Inquire if premium reductions apply after being claim-free for a set time period
  • See if exceptions can be made for accidents or violations older than 3-5 years
  • Research insurers that specialize in specific high risk niche like teens, DUIs, rideshare drivers etc.
  • Consider paying premium in full for possible discount rather than monthly installments
  • Partner with an independent agent who can shop multiple high risk carriers for you

Being a smart shopper leads to the best chance at lowered rates for high risk auto insurance shoppers who cast a wide net.

What is an SR-22 Certificate?

One thing to note - if you are required to file an SR-22, your high risk insurer will need to issue the certificate on your behalf.

An SR-22 certificate is a form that proves you have liability insurance. It is required by some states from drivers previously convicted of major offenses like:

  • DUI or DWI
  • Serious traffic violations like reckless driving
  • Causing an accident without insurance
  • Fleeing the scene of an accident
  • Vehicular manslaughter or assault with a vehicle

You must carry SR-22 insurance for 3+ years in most states and face suspension of your license if lapsed. High risk insurers are familiar with handling SR-22 filings.

Average Cost of High Risk Car Insurance

How much can you expect to pay for high risk auto insurance? Average premiums can vary substantially depending on your specific record, location and insurer.

Some ballpark ranges for yearly high risk policy costs are:

Driver HistoryAverage Yearly Premium
Minor speeding ticket$1,500 - $2,000
Recent at-fault accident$2,000 - $3,000
DUI conviction$3,000 - $5,000
Multiple accidents/violations$4,000 - $8,000+

But premiums can surpass $10,000 per year for drivers with particularly bad records or in high-cost states like Florida or New York.

Getting quotes from multiple specialist insurers remains the best way for high risk drivers to accurately gauge rates and find the most competitive premium costs.

Shopping for High Risk Insurance Companies

Not all insurers are willing to cover higher risk drivers. Here are some leading high risk insurance companies to consider getting quotes from:

  • GEICO (SR-22 filing available)
  • Progressive
  • Allstate
  • Direct Auto
  • General Insurance
  • Elephant
  • Freeway Insurance
  • Titan Insurance
  • Alpha Insurance
  • National General

Many mainstream brands like State Farm also have high risk specialty divisions. An independent insurance broker can check rates across both standard and nonstandard carriers as well.

Online quotes and applying is easiest, but you can also work with a local high risk specialist agent. Make sure any insurer is properly licensed in your state.

FAQs

How long will I be considered high risk?

Typically 3-5 years with a clean record. Incidents stay on your insurance record for about 3 years. Maintaining current coverage and an accident-free record helps lower risk status over time.

Can I pay high risk premiums monthly?

Yes. Most high risk insurers allow monthly installments broken down from the total yearly premium costs, but this may carry a small fee. Paying in full annually or every 6 months can be cheaper.

Will rates go down each renewal period?

Usually, barring new violations. Staying with the same high risk insurer and keeping a clean record helps maximize multi-year discounts to gradually reduce premium costs over time.

What vehicles are hardest to insure for high risk drivers?

Sports cars, luxury vehicles, muscle cars, and modified cars are most expensive to insure for all drivers. Also newer cars or cars with loans/liens.

Can I get high risk insurance after a DUI?

Yes, specialty insurers provide policies for drivers with DUIs but you may pay the highest rates and need to have an SR22 certificate on file. Specific rules vary by state.

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