How to Get Car Insurance with a Bad Driving Record

Having a bad driving record can make it difficult to find affordable car insurance. Whether it’s due to accidents, traffic violations, or even a DUI, insurance companies may see you as a higher risk and charge you higher premiums. However, having a bad driving record doesn’t mean you can’t get coverage.

In this guide, we’ll explore the steps you can take to find car insurance with a bad driving record, along with some tips on how to improve your chances of getting insured. 

Understanding How a Bad Driving Record Affects Car Insurance 

Insurance companies assess risk when determining premiums. A driving record with accidents, traffic tickets, or violations indicates a higher risk of future claims. Common infractions that can negatively affect your driving record include:

• Speeding tickets

• Accidents (at fault)

• DUI/DWI convictions

• Reckless driving charges

• Driving without insurance

• License suspension

When these infractions accumulate, insurance providers may consider you a “high-risk” driver and either refuse to provide coverage or offer it at a much higher rate. However, not all hope is lost. There are still ways to secure car insurance even with a less-than-perfect driving history. 

Steps to Get Car Insurance with a Bad Driving Record 

1. Shop Around and Compare Quotes 

Not all insurance companies treat bad driving records the same way. Some insurers specialize in providing coverage to high-risk drivers, while others may have stricter guidelines. Take the time to shop around and get quotes from multiple insurance providers. Use online comparison tools or work with an independent agent to compare offers and find the best price.

2. Consider High-Risk Insurance Providers 

If your driving record is particularly poor, you may need to look into high-risk car insurance companies. These insurers specialize in offering coverage to drivers who are deemed too risky for standard policies. High-risk insurance can be more expensive, but it’s a viable option for those with severe infractions like DUIs or multiple accidents. 

In some states, high-risk insurance policies are offered through a state-sponsored program. These programs are often called Assigned Risk Plans or Auto Insurance Plans, and they act as a safety net for drivers who can’t get insurance through traditional means.

3. Opt for Minimum Coverage

If your driving record is preventing you from obtaining full coverage, consider starting with the minimum required by your state. Most states require liability insurance, which covers damages to others in case of an accident where you’re at fault. While it won’t cover damage to your own vehicle, it’s a more affordable option that can still provide you with legal protection.

4. Consider a Larger Deductible

Raising your deductible can lower your premium, making insurance more affordable. If you are financially able to pay a higher deductible in the event of a claim, this can be a way to balance the cost of high-risk insurance. However, keep in mind that you’ll have to pay out-of-pocket for repairs if you’re involved in an accident. 

5. Take a Defensive Driving Course

Many insurers offer discounts for drivers who complete a defensive driving course. These courses help you refresh your knowledge of road safety, driving laws, and how to avoid accidents. Even if you have a bad driving record, completing this course can help demonstrate that you’re committed to improving your driving habits. 

Some states also allow points on your driving record to be reduced after completing a defensive driving course, which can help improve your insurance prospects. 

6. Provide Evidence of Improved Driving Behavior 

If you’ve been accident-free or violation-free for a certain period, you may be able to get a better rate. Some insurers offer discounts for drivers who have maintained a clean record for a specific period (e.g., three years). Providing evidence of good driving behavior, such as a letter from your employer or recent traffic reports, may help in proving your reliability as a driver. 

7. Look for Non-Owner Car Insurance 

If you don’t drive frequently but still need car insurance, non-owner car insurance may be a good option. This type of insurance provides liability coverage when driving cars that aren’t yours. Non-owner insurance is typically less expensive than traditional car insurance and may be a good alternative if you only drive occasionally. 

8. Consider Pay-Per-Mile or Usage-Based Insurance 

Some insurers offer pay-per-mile or usage-based car insurance. This type of policy charges you based on how much you drive. If you drive less than the average person, this could help you save on premiums. These programs usually involve installing a tracking device in your car to monitor driving habits and mileage. 

9. Work on Improving Your Driving Record 

If you’re looking for long-term solutions, actively working to improve your driving habits can help reduce insurance costs. Staying accident-free, obeying traffic laws, and avoiding future violations will not only help your driving record improve but also bring down your premiums over time. In many cases, infractions can fall off your record after a few years. 

Tips to Lower Your Car Insurance Premiums Despite a Bad Driving Record

• Bundle Your Policies: Many insurance providers offer discounts if you bundle multiple policies, such as home and auto insurance, with the same company. This can reduce your overall cost, even if you have a poor driving history.

• Pay in Full: Some insurers offer discounts if you pay your premium in full rather than making monthly payments. If you have the financial flexibility, paying upfront can help lower your rate.

• Consider a Vehicle with Lower Insurance Costs: If you’re in the market for a new car, consider choosing a vehicle that is cheaper to insure. Cars with high safety ratings and lower repair costs tend to have lower premiums.

• Maintain a Good Credit Score: In many states, insurers use your credit score to determine premiums. Keeping your credit score in good shape can help lower your rates, even if you have a poor driving record.

FAQs 

Will my bad driving record always impact my insurance premiums?

Not necessarily. Your insurance premiums may be higher if you have a bad driving record, but this depends on the severity of the violations and the policies of individual insurers. Over time, as your record improves, your premiums may decrease.

How long does a bad driving record affect my car insurance?

Traffic violations and accidents typically remain on your driving record for 3 to 5 years, depending on the nature of the offense and your state’s laws. However, they may no longer impact your premiums once they fall off your record.

Can I get car insurance if I have a DUI?

Yes, you can still get car insurance with a DUI on your record. However, you will likely face higher premiums. You may need to seek out high-risk insurance providers or state-sponsored plans, and the DUI will likely stay on your record for several years.

Can I remove points from my driving record to reduce insurance rates?

Some states allow you to remove points from your record by attending a defensive driving course or avoiding violations for a specific period. Check with your local DMV or insurance provider for options available in your state.

How can I qualify for lower rates after a bad driving record?

Over time, your rates may decrease if you avoid further violations or accidents. Additionally, completing defensive driving courses, maintaining a clean driving record for several years, or switching to a car with a better safety rating may help you qualify for lower rates.

Conclusion 

Getting car insurance with a bad driving record can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. By shopping around, considering high-risk insurance providers, and taking steps to improve your driving behavior, you can secure coverage at a reasonable price. Over time, as you continue to build a safer driving record, your premiums may decrease, making it more affordable to maintain car insurance.