While insurers might not have an industry-wide definition of high-risk drivers, they’re always assessing drivers for risk, said Frank Jones, an independent insurance agent and partner at Mints Insurance in New Jersey. Jones works with insurance lines in 25 states and often looks for insurers who will take on high-risk drivers. In general, a high-risk driver is someone with:
A major violation, such as speeding or a DUI conviction. Multiple, frequent minor violations, such as tickets or accidents. Multiple at-fault accidents in the past three to five years. A requirement to file an SR-22 or FR-44, which could be due to a conviction or not carrying insurance. Driving violations that led to accumulating points on your record.
A 2014 statewide survey in Minnesota defined the following risky driving behaviors: drinking and driving, not wearing a seatbelt, texting/internet use while driving, and speeding 10 miles per hour or more over the limit. High-risk drivers tended to be younger, male, and employed, and to associate themselves with personality traits such as thrill-seeking and competitiveness. As expected, high-risk drivers were more likely to get involved in car accidents, receive moving violations, and face license suspension than less-risky drivers.
How Does the High-Risk Driver Designation Work?
When you request a quote for car insurance, the insurance company reviews your driving record to determine whether you’re a high-risk driver with a pattern of risky driving. In fact, many insurance companies consider the driving records of every licensed driver in your home. One-time speeding tickets aren’t terribly concerning, Jones said. Insurers are more worried about covering the costs that habitually risky drivers are more likely to rack up through accidents. Jones works to match high-risk drivers with insurers that will offer more than the minimum required auto coverage at a reasonable price. He often finds that of more than a dozen insurers, only a handful will agree to take on a high-risk driver. Depending on your state, if you’re a high-risk driver, you may only be able to get coverage for the state’s liability insurance minimum. You may not be able to buy optional coverages like collision and comprehensive insurance, which cover damage to your car. Normally, insurers look at your driving history for the past five years, although a few carriers only go back three years, Jones said. Even if points fall off your state driving record, convictions for driving offenses can remain for a longer period of time, sometimes permanently.
How to Get Rid of the High-Risk Driver Designation
Some states encourage or require people convicted of high-risk driving behaviors to take driving courses. For example, after being convicted of three offenses like failure to yield or passing on a shoulder, Delaware drivers must take an eight-hour behavior modification course. Some insurers may offer a discount if you take a defensive driving course to improve your driving skills. To no longer be considered a high-risk driver by insurance companies, in general, you have to wait for the infractions to drop off your record. “If you get a DUI, a defensive driving course is not going to massively change your situation. What will change your situation is time,” Jones said. Of course, you can also take steps to prevent distracted driving:
Turn your phone to “do not disturb” mode and put it in your bag or console while you’re behind the wheel.Follow posted speed limits.Wear seat belts.Avoid driving while under any influence of drugs or alcohol.
