What High-Risk Drivers Should Know About Car Insurance
Auto insurance costs depend on a variety of factors, from the driver’s location to their driving habits. Being deemed a high-risk driver tends to lead to high insurance rates for one simple reason: a high-risk driver is more likely to make a claim on their policy. But what is a high-risk driver, exactly? And what should high-risk drivers know before shopping for auto insurance? Here are the answers to some of the most common questions.
Who is considered a high-risk driver?
Drivers under the age of 25 are assumed to be high-risk drivers. They’re generally not as experienced and are more likely than older drivers to underestimate the risk of driving. Those who drive trucks, tow trucks or performance vehicles are also considered high risk due to the inherent danger of driving these vehicles. The other categories of high-risk drivers are more obvious: drivers with convictions like DUI or reckless driving, drivers with multiple traffic violations, and drivers with prior claims or accidents.
How does this impact insurance rates?
Rates for high-risk drivers tend to be significantly higher than those for drivers who are deemed safe. This makes it especially important to compare rates across different insurance providers. Some auto insurers outright refuse to take on high-risk drivers, especially if the high-risk aspect is not disclosed as part of the initial conversation. Others claim to exclusively take on high-risk drivers.
Do high-risk drivers need more insurance?
As a high-risk driver, you may need to purchase a non-standard auto insurance policy. Some insurers require high-risk drivers to carry high-risk coverage, which could mean carrying higher liability or coverage that a basic insurance policy would not cover. Specifically, you may require a policy that offers coverage that extends to areas like bodily injury and property damage.
Can high-risk drivers get discounts?
Knowing that your insurance rates will be high as a high-risk driver, you may want to look into discounts to bring those rates down. Taking a driver safety course could help you bring down your insurance rates if that’s something your insurance provider offers. You may also be able to qualify for discounts by enrolling in a good driver program and showing a pattern of safe driving habits.
High-risk drivers and safe drivers alike can benefit from reviewing their auto insurance policies every 6 months to a year. Find coverage options from over 50 top-rated auto insurance carriers in less than 5 minutes today by using Nsure.
