Getting car insurance as a high-risk driver can feel like an uphill battle. If you’ve had a series of accidents, traffic violations, or a DUI, insurers may see you as more likely to file claims, leading to higher premiums or outright denial of coverage. But being labeled “high-risk” doesn’t mean you’re out of options—it just means you’ll need to be strategic and informed about your next steps.
This guide explains what it means to be a high-risk driver, how it impacts your insurance rates, and how you can find affordable coverage and eventually rebuild your driving reputation.
Who Is Considered a High-Risk Driver?
Insurance companies define “high-risk” as anyone who poses a greater-than-average chance of filing a claim. Common reasons you may be classified as high-risk include:
1. Multiple Traffic Violations
Frequent speeding tickets, reckless driving, or running red lights can all add up.
2. At-Fault Accidents
If you’ve caused one or more recent accidents, especially serious ones, expect to be flagged.
3. Driving Under the Influence (DUI/DWI)
A DUI conviction significantly raises your risk profile, often leading to non-renewal of your policy.
4. License Suspension or Revocation
Whether from unpaid tickets or a DUI, a suspended license is a red flag to insurers.
5. Young or Inexperienced Drivers
Teens and drivers under 25 are automatically seen as riskier due to inexperience, even with clean records.
6. Lapse in Insurance Coverage
If you’ve gone without car insurance for a period of time, insurers may view you as unreliable.
7. Poor Credit History (in most states)
In many states, insurers legally use credit-based insurance scores to assess risk. Low scores = higher premiums.
How Being High-Risk Affects Your Insurance
If you’re considered high-risk, you may experience:
- Higher Premiums – Sometimes double or triple standard rates
- Limited Coverage Options – Some insurers may refuse to cover you
- SR-22 or FR-44 Filing Requirements – Especially after a DUI, these forms prove you have minimum coverage
- Larger Down Payments – Insurers may require more money upfront to reduce their financial risk
In some cases, traditional insurance companies may deny coverage altogether, pushing you toward non-standard or high-risk auto insurers.
What Is High-Risk Auto Insurance?
High-risk car insurance is a category of coverage designed for drivers who are more likely to file claims. It offers basic liability insurance—sometimes full coverage—at a higher cost than standard insurance.
These policies are usually issued by:
- Specialized high-risk insurers
- The high-risk division of a standard insurer (e.g., GEICO Casualty vs. GEICO General)
- State-sponsored auto insurance programs (for those who can’t find coverage elsewhere)
What Is an SR-22 or FR-44?
An SR-22 (or FR-44 in some states like Florida and Virginia) is not insurance but a certificate of financial responsibility. It’s required for drivers who:
- Had a DUI/DWI
- Drove without insurance
- Caused an accident while uninsured
- Have repeated traffic violations
Your insurer files the SR-22 with the state to confirm you carry at least the minimum required coverage. These filings usually last for 3–5 years, and if your policy lapses, the state is notified immediately.
How to Get Car Insurance as a High-Risk Driver
While being high-risk limits your options, it doesn’t leave you uninsured. Here’s how to find coverage:
1. Use a Comparison Tool or Broker
Not all insurers treat risk the same way. Some companies specialize in high-risk drivers and may offer better rates than others.
2. Look for High-Risk Specialists
Companies like The General, Dairyland, Infinity, and Bristol West are known for working with high-risk drivers.
3. Join a State-Assigned Risk Pool
If no insurer will cover you, your state may offer a residual market plan, assigning you to an insurer through a high-risk pool. These plans guarantee coverage—but at a higher cost.
4. Work With an Independent Agent
Agents can help you navigate multiple insurers and find the most affordable policy based on your record.
Tips to Lower High-Risk Car Insurance Premiums
Just because you’re high-risk today doesn’t mean you’ll be stuck there forever. Here’s how to start lowering your rates:
1. Maintain Continuous Coverage
Don’t let your policy lapse, even if you’re not driving often. Continuous coverage builds trust with insurers.
2. Drive Safely
Avoid tickets, accidents, and any traffic infractions. After three years of clean driving, many violations “fall off” your record.
3. Take a Defensive Driving Course
Some states and insurers offer discounts for completing an approved driving course—especially after a violation.
4. Ask About Discounts
Even high-risk policies may offer:
- Multi-policy discounts (bundling auto and renters/home insurance)
- Good student discounts (for younger drivers)
- Usage-based discounts (via telematics apps or devices)
5. Consider a Higher Deductible
Increasing your deductible (the amount you pay in a claim) can reduce your monthly premium—but only if you can afford to pay that amount out of pocket in an emergency.
6. Choose the Right Vehicle
Avoid sports cars or luxury vehicles. Instead, opt for safe, modest, and reliable cars that are cheaper to insure.
7. Improve Your Credit Score
If you live in a state that allows credit-based scoring, improving your credit can lower your rates over time.
How Long Will You Be Considered High-Risk?
Your high-risk status isn’t permanent. Most traffic violations and at-fault accidents stay on your record for three to five years, depending on the state and the insurer. DUIs can affect you for up to 10 years.
After a few years of clean driving, your record can “reset” with many insurers, and you’ll be eligible for lower rates and better coverage.
States That Don’t Use Credit or Limit Risk-Based Pricing
Some states have restrictions on how insurers can determine rates. For example:
- California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts: Don’t allow the use of credit scores
- New York and New Jersey: Have strict guidelines on rate-setting
- North Carolina: Requires insurers to use a shared risk pool system, keeping high-risk rates more consistent
Depending on where you live, you may have more protections and potentially better options.
Final Thoughts
Being labeled a high-risk driver may feel discouraging, but it’s not the end of the road. With time, responsible driving, and a little research, you can still find reliable and affordable car insurance coverage—and eventually work your way back to standard rates.
The key is to stay insured, drive safely, and actively seek out insurers that cater to your situation. Whether you’re dealing with a recent DUI, multiple tickets, or you’re a young driver just starting out, there’s always a way forward.