Car insurance companies base premiums on the amount of risk you pose—in other words, how likely you are to file a claim. Unfortunately, even a simple mistake or isolated incident can cause insurers to consider you a “high-risk driver,” which will drive up your insurance rates or make it difficult to get coverage at all. Below are a few common reasons people might be considered too risky for some insurance companies. 

3 Reasons You Might Be a High-Risk Driver

1. A Poor Driving Record

When issuing quotes, car insurance companies carefully examine your driving record to determine the likelihood that you’ll cause an accident. If you’ve been responsible for one or more claims in the past, carriers will likely consider you a higher risk. Additionally, insurers consider several tickets and citations to be signs that a person isn’t very safe behind the wheel, so you might be considered “high-risk” even if you’ve never caused a crash.

2. A DUI

A DUI conviction affects almost every aspect of your life, especially your car insurance premiums. Even if you get your license back, your carrier will likely cancel your policy at renewal, and finding coverage can be difficult with a DUI on your record. Fortunately, many auto insurance companies specialize in providing coverage to high-risk drivers.

3. Being Young

It may seem unfair, but your age can also qualify you as a high-risk driver, even if you’ve never caused or an accident or been pulled over. Car insurance companies know that teens cause a disproportionate share of collisions, so they usually charge higher premiums for young drivers. Fortunately, your rates begin to drop and coverage gets easier to find as you get older as long as you keep a clean driving record.

If your driving record is less than perfect or other insurers have turned you down, Lafever Insurance Agency will help find the affordable coverage you need. Their independent agents have been serving high-risk drivers throughout Tennessee’s Upper Cumberland area since 1978 and will take the time to find a policy tailored to your needs. Visit their website to learn more about their specialized car insurance services or call (931) 526-3377 to request your free, no-obligation quote.