Getting car insurance with a bad driving record is challenging but entirely possible. You will likely pay significantly higher premiums, but by shopping around with non-standard insurance companies that specialize in high-risk drivers, considering higher deductibles, and exploring all available discounts, you can find coverage. The key is to be proactive and compare quotes from multiple providers, as rates can vary dramatically.
A bad record, which insurers view as a history of at-risk behavior, includes violations like DUIs, at-fault accidents, speeding tickets, and license suspensions. Insurance companies use this data to calculate your premium, and a poor record signals a higher likelihood they will have to pay a claim.
Your Action Plan:
- Shop Around Aggressively: Don't settle for the first quote. Get quotes from at least three to five companies. This is the most critical step. Use both large national carriers and smaller, regional high-risk auto insurance providers.
- Be Accurate and Honest: Disclose your entire driving history upfront. Insurers will find it during their verification process, and misrepresentation can lead to denied claims or policy cancellation.
- Ask About Discounts: Inquire about every possible discount—paying in full, paperless billing, taking a defensive driving course (which can sometimes directly reduce points on your license), or bundling with renters or homeowners insurance.
- Adjust Your Coverage: While you must meet your state's minimum liability requirements, consider opting for a higher deductible on your comprehensive and collision coverage. This lowers your premium but means you'll pay more out-of-pocket if you file a claim.
- Consider Usage-Based Insurance: Programs like Progressive's Snapshot or Allstate's Drivewise track your driving habits. If you demonstrate safe driving over a period, you could earn a discount, proving you're lower risk now.
The table below illustrates how different infractions typically impact annual premium increases, based on industry averages. A DUI offense has the most severe financial consequence.
| Driving Infraction | Typical Annual Premium Increase | Policy Impact Duration (Years) |
|---|
| DUI / DWI | 80% - 120%+ | 5 - 10 |
| At-Fault Accident | 40% - 60% | 3 - 5 |
| Reckless Driving | 50% - 80% | 3 - 5 |
| Speeding Ticket (16-20 mph over limit) | 20% - 30% | 3 |
| Driving Without Insurance | 10% - 20% | 3 |
Over time, the best way to lower your rates is to maintain a clean driving record. Violations typically affect your premium for three to five years, with major offenses like a DUI impacting you for much longer.
