Why Poor Drivers Have A Tough Time Finding Affordable Car Insurance
Getting affordable car insurance with a poor driving record is an excellent example of cause and effect. Once an insurance company reviews a poor driving history, count on being forced to pay more for coverage. In more extreme cases, an insurer might refuse to do business with someone seeking an auto insurance policy. Since all states require drivers to have auto insurance, the traffic problems of one family member can mean higher rates for family car insurance policies. Insurance companies aren't trying to make things more difficult for policyholders. It's just that poor driving records signal more risk than is normal or prudent. Accepting more risk forces insurers to charge more for automobile insurance.
The vast importance of having car insurance is demonstrated by what it means not to have a policy. If a driver is pulled over, the first thing a traffic cop will say is, "License, registration and insurance, please." A driver without any one of these items can expect problems. Not having proof of car insurance can result in a hefty fine, to go along with whatever penalty was ordered for the original violation.
Affordable car insurance is normally a routine purchase. Expect the insurance company to request a customer's driving record from the state motor vehicle department. A clean record looks good, while a not-so-clean record sends up alarms. One way to ameliorate a bad driving history is to voluntarily enter a safe driving school. Inquire with an insurance company before entering any such program. Some have better reputations and are more respected by insurers. Reviewing a driving record isn't just a one time thing. Some insurance companies will examine records each time a policy is renewed. Buying a new car or adding any car to the policy will cause insurers to review driving records. Also, requesting to add another driver to a family car insurance policy will prompt a review.
Each insurance company has its own underwriting methods for determining if a prospective customer is insurable. And if so, for how much. Any points on a driving record are going to have an influence on the insurer's ultimate decision regarding coverage and premium costs. It does pay to shop around when looking for car insurance. Some firms have less stringent requirements.
Driving under the influence is a major cost determination for any car insurance issuer. In some states, a DUI conviction can triple, even quadruple, auto insurance costs for as long as seven years. That's tough and could be made worse if insurers refuse to issue a policy. A driver must then apply for a state's assigned-risk policy and those usually charge high premiums.
