How To Know If You’re A High Risk Driver

If there’s one label you want to avoid when it comes to your driving, it’s “high risk”. Once you’re labeled a high risk driver, finding affordable car insurance (or being able to be insured at all) becomes much more difficult. Do you know if you’re considered high risk? We’ll help give you some clues.

Do you have a traffic violation or fault accident?

Sadly, even just one traffic violation will put you at higher risk than someone with none. It’s frustrating when you have gone years without and violations and then have to pay a surcharge for a ticket. Sadly, that’s the consequence of even minor violations.

At fault accidents is a sure fire way to become considered high risk. However, some insurers give you the option to purchase Accident Forgiveness as a way for you to avoid price increases after an accident. You would pay extra or in lieu of a surcharge after an accident.

Insurance companies that offer this are: GEICO, Allstate, Liberty Mutual, Nationwide, Progressive, State Farm and more.

Are you a teen driver?

We know, you’re basically being punished for being young. But, it’s hard for insurance companies to trust you on the road when you aren’t yet seasoned like someone older in age. All drivers have to experience this period of “high risk” for a while. Fret not, when you turn 25, your rates will go down and you won’t be considered an young buck on the road any longer.

Do you have a DUI/DWI?

Okay, this one is kind of a given. You can expect higher rates after being pulled over for a DUI (driving under the influence) or a DWI (driving while intoxicated). Don’t be surprised if your rates go up anywhere from 80 percent to as high as 371 percent, depending on the state you live in. Don’t worry, though. Some insurers may specialize in DUI clients, so look around to find the best rate for you.

Are you currently uninsured?

If you are a licensed driver, insurance is always required. If you cannot show proof of prior insurance, you can bet on paying a much higher rate. Once you get car insurance again, you’ll be paying high-risk rates about 6 continuous months. Make sure you have continuous insurance coverage, and avoid paying those pesky rates.

How long will I be considered high risk?

Fret not! Maybe you’ve made some not-so-great driving decisions in the past. That was then, and this is now! You can absolutely recover from those past mistakes. Every state has a length of time that a penalty will stay on your record. Many insurers will “reward” you if you agree to take driving safety classes or defensive driving courses. Showing that you’re responsible and take initiative to making positive changes to your record will pay off in the long run.

Depending on the violation, you can expect to have those pesky points off your record in about 3 years. If you’re high risk now, don’t worry – you’ll be on your way to “low risk” (and lower rates!) in no time.

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