What Makes You A High-Risk Driver And How Do You Get Insurance?

Labels are everywhere, even with auto insurance. One label insurance companies use is "high-risk." If you end up with this title, it means that you have a higher chance of filing a claim than many others, and you will pay higher rates as a result. Are you wondering what makes you a high-risk driver? Here are some answers to this, along with tips to find insurance if you're a high-risk driver.

The Qualities of a High-Risk Driver

An effective way to understand what makes you a high-risk driver is by delving into the qualities of people that fall into this category. Here are some of these qualities:

• Age — Generally, people under the age of 25 or over the age of 65 fall into this category, just from their age.
• Driving history — People with a history of accidents, tickets, and extreme driving violations are also in this classification.
• Lapses in coverage — You can also end up as a high-risk driver from allowing a lapse in your insurance plan.

There may be other qualities, too, but these are the most common. You would be considered the highest-risk form of driver if you are under 25 and have a history of driving offenses, especially a DUI or something like that.

Tips for Getting Insurance as a High-Risk Driver

If you fall into this classification, you may face some challenges finding a policy for your car insurance coverage. You can probably find a plan, but it might cost more than you're used to paying. To find one, you should shop around. Before doing this, though, find out if you need SR-22.

SR-22 is a document needed for proof of insurance. There are times when high-risk drivers need this form to keep their driving privileges. If you need it, you'll have to find an insurance company that not only offers coverage to high-risk drivers, but that also provides SR-22 plans. This coverage type is not something you can find with all companies.

Once you get a few quotes for coverage, compare them, and choose one. At least you'll have coverage at this point. You should, however, ask the insurance company if there are any steps you can take to change your risk level. You might discover that taking driver's education may help, or you could find other options.

To learn more, contact an auto insurance company that provides high-risk coverage to drivers.