Auto insurance companies want to know the likelihood potential clients will file claims before setting premiums. High-risk car insurance rates are substantially higher than the average $1,730 drivers fork out each year for full coverage, according to an August 2024 report by MarketWatch, with risk factors adding to premium totals depending on the reason and provider. Potential high-risk factors include:
  • Younger and new drivers.
  • Drivers with a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI).
  • Drivers with speeding tickets or other moving violations.
  • Drivers with multiple at-fault accidents.
  • Drivers with a reckless-driving conviction.
  • Drivers with lapses in insurance coverage.
  • Drivers with bad credit scores.
"If you have a driving violation, a DUI or DWI conviction or several accidents on your driving record, insurance companies will likely consider you a higher risk to insure," MarketWatch said. "Having little driving experience can also be risky, which is why teens' insurance rates are typically high." Insurers use other variables determining rates:
  • Location: Prices differ between states but also vary within them. Drivers in areas with high crime rates or extreme weather often pay higher auto insurance premiums.
  • Credit score: In states where it's legal to do so, insurance companies use your credit history as a factor in your rate. Drivers with poor credit scores are considered much less likely to pay, so insurers usually charge them higher rates.
  • Marital status: Married drivers are more likely to bundle their auto coverage with other types of insurance or insure multiple vehicles, so they tend to pay less for car insurance.
  • Vehicle: Several details about your vehicle — including its value, condition and mileage — help determine your premium.
  • Coverage: The type of insurance coverage you have and the policy limits you set have a major impact on your rate.
  • Deductible: You can typically choose your deductible, which is your out-of-pocket cost before your insurer compensates you for a covered loss. Generally, your auto insurance rate will be higher if you have a lower deductible.
  • Discounts: Just because you have blemishes on your driving record or other risk factors doesn't mean you can't save on coverage. Most insurers offer a few car insurance discounts you might qualify for.
The slideshow above illustrates the best auto insurance companies for high-risk drivers as selected by MarketWatch. See also:

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Joe Toppe

Joe Toppe serves as managing editor of PropertyCasualty360.com. Joe is also a father of three, an author, and longtime lover of baseball.

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