Having a bad driving record can make it challenging to find affordable car insurance, but it’s not impossible. Insurance companies view drivers with a history of accidents, traffic violations, or other infractions as higher risk, which can result in higher premiums. However, there are strategies you can use to secure car insurance even with a less-than-perfect driving record. Here’s what you need to know.
Understanding the Impact of a Bad Driving Record
A bad driving record typically includes:
- Accidents: Being involved in one or more accidents, especially if you were at fault.
- Traffic Violations: Speeding tickets, running red lights, and other traffic infractions.
- DUI/DWI Convictions: Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) convictions.
- License Suspensions: Having your driver’s license suspended or revoked.
These factors indicate a higher risk to insurance companies, leading to higher premiums or difficulty obtaining coverage.
Strategies to Get Car Insurance with a Bad Driving Record
- Shop Around for Quotes
Different insurance companies have varying policies and rates for high-risk drivers. Shopping around and comparing quotes from multiple insurers can help you find the best rate. Some insurers specialize in providing coverage for high-risk drivers and may offer more competitive rates.
- Consider High-Risk Insurance Providers
High-risk insurance providers, also known as non-standard insurers, specialize in offering coverage to drivers with bad records. While premiums may be higher, these companies are more likely to provide the coverage you need. Examples of high-risk insurers include The General, Dairyland, and SafeAuto.
- Look for State-Sponsored Programs
Some states offer insurance programs for high-risk drivers who are unable to obtain coverage through traditional insurers. These programs, known as assigned risk plans or residual market plans, provide a way for high-risk drivers to get the required coverage. Check with your state’s Department of Insurance for more information.
- Improve Your Driving Record
Taking steps to improve your driving record can help you qualify for better rates over time. Here are some ways to do this:
- Complete a Defensive Driving Course: Enrolling in a defensive driving course can demonstrate your commitment to safe driving and may result in a discount on your premium.
- Avoid Further Violations: Practice safe driving habits and avoid traffic violations to maintain a clean record moving forward.
- Wait for Violations to Drop Off: Traffic violations and accidents typically remain on your driving record for a certain number of years. As these incidents age, their impact on your premium may decrease.
- Consider Usage-Based Insurance
Usage-based insurance (UBI) programs, also known as pay-as-you-drive or telematics insurance, can be a cost-effective option for high-risk drivers. These programs use a device installed in your car or a mobile app to monitor your driving habits, such as speed, braking, and mileage. Safe driving behavior can result in lower premiums. If you’re committed to improving your driving habits, UBI can be a great way to save on insurance.
- Increase Your Deductible
Raising your deductible—the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in—can lower your monthly premium. However, it’s important to choose a deductible amount that you can afford in case of an accident. For example, increasing your deductible from $500 to $1,000 can result in significant savings on your premium, but make sure you have enough savings to cover the higher deductible if needed.
- Maintain Continuous Coverage
Avoiding lapses in coverage is crucial for keeping your premiums as low as possible. Insurance companies view continuous coverage as a sign of responsibility, while gaps in coverage can result in higher rates. If you’re switching insurers, ensure there’s no gap between the end of your old policy and the start of your new one.
Conclusion
While having a bad driving record can make it more challenging to find affordable car insurance, it’s not impossible. By shopping around for quotes, considering high-risk insurance providers, looking for state-sponsored programs, improving your driving record, considering usage-based insurance, increasing your deductible, and maintaining continuous coverage, you can secure the coverage you need and potentially lower your premiums over time. Taking these steps will help you navigate the complexities of car insurance with a bad driving record and ensure you have the protection you need.
