Best High Risk Auto Insurance

Sometimes, even good drivers make mistakes behind the wheel and get classified as higher-risk motorists. Auto insurance rates for these drivers can be 25% to 100% more expensive. The good news is that good deals can be found with a little research and quote comparison shopping. The best high-risk auto insurance is often available online.

What Makes a Driver “High-Risk”?

One reason “high-risk” premiums vary so much is that numerous factors affect pricing. Each state also has its own set of insurance laws, which directly impact car insurance rates. Moreover, insurers offer drastically different premiums for the same driver. Some companies welcome higher-risk motorists, while others refuse to insure those with certain infractions, such as a DUI conviction.

These are some of the main factors carriers use to determine pricing:

• Driving Record – More than three moving violations in three years can classify a person as a high-risk motorist. A DUI conviction will automatically cause rates to skyrocket. Safe driving is the most effective way to keep costs low.
• Age – Drivers under 25 tend to take more risks and are more likely to drive while distracted.
• ZIP Code – Insurers use crash and auto theft data in each ZIP code to set rates. Living in a high-theft or high-accident area can increase premiums.
• Vehicle Make and Model – The more expensive the vehicle, the higher the insurance cost. Older, less valuable cars usually cost less to cover.
• Credit Rating – A poor credit score below 600 can increase your premiums by 15%. Raising your score above 700 can lower your rates significantly.

Calculating the cost of high-risk auto insurance is difficult because many factors are involved. Each insurer uses different algorithms to evaluate risk. For example, one company may double your rates after a DUI, while another may increase them by 80% or more. That’s why it’s essential to compare as many quotes as possible before buying a policy.

How Much More Does High-Risk Auto Insurance Cost?

The reality is that high-risk auto insurance typically costs 25% to over 100% more than coverage for lower-risk drivers. Those with a DUI conviction can expect to pay more than double. Multiple DUIs often lead to rejection from many insurers, as such drivers are considered too risky.

If you’ve been in an at-fault accident—especially one involving costly bodily injuries—your premiums can increase by at least 25% or more. The same applies to serious traffic violations, such as multiple speeding tickets or running red lights. The riskier you appear to a company, the higher your premiums will be.

Street racing convictions are nearly as serious as DUIs. They can result in policy cancellation or rate hikes of 80% or more. Some insurers even have a low tolerance for a single speeding ticket and may raise your rates by 70% or more. This proves it’s simply not worth it to break traffic laws. One of the best ways to get affordable car insurance with low down payment options is to drive safely, follow the rules, and maintain a clean record year after year.

Tips for Reducing High-Risk Premiums

Even if you’ve been labeled as a high-risk driver, there are ways to bring your costs down:

• Take a defensive driving course – Many insurers will discount your premium after completion.
• Consider telematics or usage-based insurance – Some companies offer programs where your driving habits are tracked via an app or device. Safe driving can earn significant discounts.
• Bundle your coverage – Purchasing home or renters insurance from the same provider can lower your total premium.
• Raise your deductible – A higher deductible can reduce your monthly payments, but make sure you can afford it if you need to file a claim.
• Shop around regularly – High-risk drivers are often penalized differently across insurers. Rates can change quickly, so it pays to compare at least once a year.

Top Insurance Companies for High-Risk Drivers

Some insurers specialize in covering higher-risk motorists. For example:

• The General – Known for affordable rates for drivers with multiple tickets and DUIs. The General often provides some of the cheapest high-risk car insurance among major insurers, including SR-22 filings, and makes it easy to get insured quickly.
• Bristol West – A specialty insurer focusing on high-risk drivers, often at rates 30% lower than other major carriers. In consumer surveys, Bristol West has ranked well for offering competitive premiums and flexible coverage options.
• Allstate – While not exclusively a high-risk insurer, Allstate has programs for drivers with violations and offers discounts for safe driving over time.

Keep in mind that the cheapest company for one driver may not be the cheapest for another. Comparing several quotes is the best way to identify which insurer will treat your unique situation most favorably.

Why Being a High-Risk Driver Can Break Your Budget

Getting a serious traffic ticket can make auto insurance unaffordable for people on a tight monthly budget. For example, the average annual auto insurance cost in the U.S. is about $1,200. Two speeding violations can increase a person’s rate by 50% or more.

That means a $100 monthly premium could jump to $150. A DUI can push monthly rates beyond $200. Many drivers can’t afford the increase and end up canceling their policy—leading to risky decisions like driving uninsured, which can result in legal trouble and a worse driving record.

How to Find Affordable High-Risk Auto Insurance

To find the best deal, you’ll need to compare multiple quotes. The fastest way to do this is online. Independent comparison platforms allow you to see rates from several insurers side by side in just a few minutes.

Most consumers who compare policies save hundreds of dollars per year. Start by entering your ZIP code into a licensed insurance comparison tool, review your options carefully, and don’t be afraid to switch companies if it saves you money.

FAQs About High-Risk Auto Insurance