Reader’s Question:

Do automotive insurance companies still insure high risk drivers?

Tom

San Francisco CA

First, what do automotive insurance companies consider as high risk drivers? A person who has been involved in accidents or received tickets for violations can be considered as high risk. Persons who have been convicted at least once for DUI or driving under the influence of alcohol are also considered as high risk drivers. Wrongdoings aren’t the only criteria though. Young drivers and inexperienced ones can also be grouped into high risk. Even those who own sporty or flashy cars.

If you have been labeled as a high risk driver, then you know how frustrating it is to get the policy that you want for you auto insurance. It is frustrating to say the least. What’s more frustrating is if you’re looking for a new insurance or renewing one. There are ways though on how you can still get good insurance despite being called a high risk driver.

The easiest way I could think of is to go to companies that specialize in these type of drivers. If you risk going to a regular company, then be prepared to pay for a very high premium. Even the cheapest insurance for high risk drivers will still be higher than that of the average driver. But why would automotive insurance companies agree to insure high risk drivers? Simple because they know there is a market for it. Although statistics say otherwise, some companies also know and are hopeful that high risk drivers will hesitate to file a claim.

Another way to get cheap insurance is to lower the risks. Yes it will take some time and could require a lot of patience. But the reward is very satisfying. So how does one lower the risk? If you have received tickets for violations, pay all the necessary fines. Call the DMV and ask if you still have any unpaid violations. Prompt payment of fines also helps.

After paying of those fines, be sure not to get into new violations. Follow the required speed limit as well as the traffic rules and regulations. If you’re going out to a party, don’t drink and drive. Of course, buy a modest vehicle. If the car that you buy looks like it can really go fast, chances are you will be tempted to drive it even faster. So avoid cars that seem to encourage speeding or reckless behavior.

There are automotive insurance companies that will still insure high risk drivers. This doesn’t mean that you do nothing. Lower those risks. Or if you already are, maintain it.