If you have a less-than-perfect driving history/record, there is a good possibility that you will be classified as a high-risk driver by most California auto insurance companies. This means that you will most likely have to pay for high-risk auto insurance. Although it sounds like an oxymoron, cheap high-risk auto insurance auto insurance does exist. You just have to do some searching in order to find an affordable policy.
What is High-Risk Auto Insurance?
High-risk auto insurance coverage was designed for those individuals who are riskier to insure than good drivers. High-risk drivers are categorized as such because they have accidents, DUI/DWI convictions, and traffic violations on their driving record. In most cases, high-risk auto insurance is available, but it comes with a much higher price tag attached compared to standard coverages. Furthermore, there are a number of auto insurance companies that do not even offer high-risk coverage.
5 Factors that will get You classified as a High-Risk Driver
As was mentioned above, high-risk drivers are those individuals that insurance companies classify as being riskier to insure. There are several factors that an insurer will consider before they label you as a high-risk driver. You will need to purchase high-risk auto insurance if you have:
• Been involved in multiple accidents
• Have a poor credit history
• Just got your California driver’s license (first-time driver)
• Received several speeding tickets or have other traffic violations on your driving record
• Were convicted of DUI (driving under the influence) or a DWI (driving while intoxicated)
Although you may be thinking that a high-risk auto insurance policy is going to cost you considerably more – and you would be right in most cases – and that you cannot afford it, it’s illegal to be driving on California highways and roads without it. This is a gamble and you will eventually lose.
The consequences of driving with California auto insurance are quite severe. Even a single accident, especially if it involves another uninsured or underinsured motorist, could cost you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in damages. Furthermore, you could lose your license if you are caught driving without insurance. Fortunately, there are insurance companies that offer affordable high-risk auto insurance.
How to Find Cheap High-Risk Auto Insurance
If your budget is a primary consideration where the care and maintenance of your vehicle is concerned, then it is essential that you find high-risk auto insurance that you can afford. Even though your premium rates are going to be priced well above the average policy, there are ways that you can lower them so you’re not paying so much out-of-pocket. Here are some factors to consider where this is concerned:
First and foremost, despite being classified as a high-risk driver, you can still get auto insurance – granted, you are going to run into those insurance companies that will only insure individuals with flawless or perfect driving records. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find a company that offers this type of auto insurance. Be aware that some companies refer to it as “non-standard auto insurance.” There are reputable companies out there. You just have to spend time researching several companies in order to find it.
Compare several different companies – anytime you are making a major purchase, you need to do plenty of comparison shopping. This is especially true when it comes to finding cheap high-risk auto insurance. Beware of premium rates that are too cheap as the coverage will most likely be minimal in nature. You have to be diligent about this if you are going to make a well-informed decision.
Even though you have been classified as a high-risk driver, it’s not permanent – although you have been categorized as a high-risk driver, the state of California places specific limits on the period of time that convictions, penalties, and violations remain on your driving record. However, the insurance company you choose can suggest ways for you to start correcting those issues. All you have to do is ask your agent. For instance, if you attend a traffic safety course or enroll in a defensive driving class, your insurance company may reward you for that by lowering your premium rates.
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