Having a bad driving record can make it challenging to find affordable car insurance. Accidents, speeding tickets, DUIs, or other violations can raise your insurance rates and even make some insurers unwilling to cover you. However, despite these challenges, there are still ways to obtain car insurance at a reasonable cost. In this guide, we’ll explore how you can secure car insurance with a bad driving record and tips to lower your premiums over time.
Understanding a Bad Driving Record
A “bad driving record” typically includes infractions such as:
- Multiple speeding tickets
- At-fault accidents
- DUI/DWI convictions
- Reckless driving
- License suspensions
- Traffic violations over a short period
Insurers consider drivers with these issues as high-risk, which leads to increased premiums. However, options remain available for high-risk drivers.
Steps to Get Car Insurance with a Bad Driving Record
1. Look for High-Risk Insurance Providers
Many standard insurance companies may not cover high-risk drivers, but some specialize in offering policies for individuals with a bad driving history. These insurers cater to drivers with accidents, violations, or DUI records. Some well-known companies that offer high-risk insurance include:
- The General
- Dairyland
- Progressive (with their high-risk policies)
- State Farm (in select cases)
- Geico (SR-22 insurance options)
These companies often have more flexible policies for high-risk drivers but may come with higher premiums.
2. Compare Multiple Quotes
Not all insurance providers charge the same rates for high-risk drivers. It’s essential to shop around and compare multiple quotes before settling on a policy. Use online comparison tools, speak with insurance agents, and request personalized quotes from different insurers to find the best rates.
3. Consider State-Assigned Risk Pools
If you’ve been denied coverage by multiple insurance companies, check your state’s assigned risk pool. These government-backed programs ensure that even high-risk drivers can get coverage. However, policies from these pools tend to be more expensive, so they should be a last resort.
4. Look for Usage-Based or Pay-Per-Mile Insurance
Some insurers offer telematics-based policies where your driving behavior is monitored via an app or a device installed in your car. Safe driving habits, such as maintaining speed limits and avoiding harsh braking, can help lower your rates over time. Companies offering this type of insurance include:
- Progressive’s Snapshot
- Allstate’s Drivewise
- State Farm’s Drive Safe & Save
5. Ask About Discounts
Even with a bad driving record, you might qualify for certain discounts that can help lower your premiums, such as:
- Bundling discounts (combining home and auto insurance)
- Defensive driving course discounts
- Low-mileage discounts
- Pay-in-full discounts
- Good student discounts (if applicable)
6. Improve Your Driving Record Over Time
Insurance rates are largely based on your driving history over the last three to five years. To improve your record and qualify for better rates:
- Avoid traffic violations
- Follow speed limits and road rules
- Take a defensive driving course (which can remove points from your record in some states)
- Drive cautiously and avoid accidents
- Maintain continuous insurance coverage to avoid penalties
7. Increase Your Deductible
Raising your deductible—the amount you pay out-of-pocket before insurance kicks in—can lower your monthly premium. However, ensure that you have enough savings to cover the higher deductible if an accident occurs.
8. Obtain an SR-22 if Necessary
If your driving record includes serious violations like a DUI or reckless driving, your state may require an SR-22 form to prove that you have insurance. Not all insurers offer SR-22 policies, so you may need to find a company that provides this service. While SR-22 insurance is expensive, maintaining it responsibly can help improve your record over time.
How Long Does a Bad Driving Record Affect Insurance Rates?
Most violations and accidents stay on your record for three to five years, though some offenses (like DUIs) can remain for longer. As time passes and you maintain a clean record, your insurance premiums should gradually decrease.
Final Thoughts
Getting car insurance with a bad driving record can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. By exploring high-risk insurance providers, comparing multiple quotes, considering telematics-based policies, and taking steps to improve your record, you can find affordable coverage. Over time, maintaining good driving habits will help you qualify for better rates and save money. Stay patient, drive responsibly, and work towards improving your record for better insurance options in the future.
