Insurance companies have a sophisticated set of duties. Carriers design policies that protect their policyholders, evaluate how much risk a potential policyholder brings to the table, establish effective rates that are affordable to the policyholder while keeping the insurer profitable, and they need to meet their claim obligations to policyholders.
Reading that, you might think it means that insurers won’t issue an auto insurance policy to you if you are a high-risk driver, but that’s not true. An experienced agent can help you find insurers that will make it possible for you to get insurance and submit your SR-22.
Who is High Risk?
There is no single factor that may make an individual driver high risk. An insurer could consider any of the following to meet that definition:
- Elderly drivers
- Young drivers
- Drivers with a history of accidents
- Drivers with a history of traffic violations
- Drivers with a suspended license
- Drivers with a DUI or DWI
- Drivers who’ve repetitively driven without coverage
Qualifying for a Policy
One of the keys to getting a policy when you’re high risk is working with an agent who has access to multiple carriers, including non-standard carriers, and is familiar with the underwriting standards of each. That agent will know which insurers are less likely to offer a policy based on your specific history and, in turn, which are more likely to.
The best ways for you to make this process easier for your agent:
- Fully disclose your driving history
- Let them know what you’ve done to become a better driver and prevent a repeat of old mistakes
- Take a driving class
- Keep your record clean
SR-22 Filings
If you are required to submit proof of insurance through an SR-22 filing, your agent can assist you with that for however many years you are required to submit it.
Keeping the Insurance
As a high-risk driver, getting insurance is just half the battle. You also need to maintain your insurance so you can keep your vehicle on the road. In order to retain your policy:
- Pay premiums in full and on time
- Send back any bi-annual or annual renewal documents by the deadline
- Maintain a clean driving record
If you’re ready to start exploring your high-risk auto insurance options, let us know. We can help you find the right company and policy for all your non-standard needs. Call us today at 800-530-5822 or get a free Missouri auto insurance quote.
JG