Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of injury death in Georgia and the second-leading reason for hospitalizations. It’s no surprise that Georgia insurance companies take high-risk driving seriously due to the large number of fatalities and injuries attributed to car crashes.
Drivers who have been convicted of DUI, had at least one speeding ticket and have had insurance coverage lapses are considered high-risk. It can be difficult for high risk drivers find affordable car insurance coverage, or even to get insured. High-risk drivers in Georgia are able to find the right car insurance coverage by correcting their driving record and looking into available providers in the area.
Georgia rates for high-risk auto insurance
Your insurance rates will increase if you are convicted of a high-risk driving offense. Rate increases will vary depending on what type of traffic offense was committed. Insurance providers will adjust rates based on the type of traffic violation.
Rates for speeding tickets
The fourth leading cause of traffic deaths in Georgia is speeding. Rates will rise depending on the driver’s driving record, gender, and age. Below is a table that shows how high-risk Georgia drivers can pay for car insurance after getting a speeding ticket.
It is often possible to find the most affordable car coverage after a speeding ticket. You can shop around to find the best provider for your needs. You may also be able work with your carrier to get discounts through approved driving courses that may reduce your rates.
Rates for an at-fault injury
Georgia drivers are guilty of one of the most serious traffic offenses: causing an accident. Rate increases can be much more severe after such violations. Rate increases can vary depending on driving record, insurance carrier, gender, and age. Below is a table that shows what Georgians should expect to pay if they are found at fault for an automobile accident.
At-fault incidents can be kept on your driving record for as long as three years. This will impact the rate that you pay for your insurance until the incident is cleared up. You can expect to pay more for your Georgia car insurance coverage as you correct your record.
Rates for DUI
Driving while intoxicated is the leading cause of motor vehicle accidents . It is also the most serious traffic offense a driver could commit. A DUI can result in an insurance company refusing to allow a driver to renew their policy. You may also be required to have a SR-22 certificate, which is a special certification that shows high-risk drivers they have the minimum required coverage for car insurance. You could face suspension or revocation of your license, fines, jail sentence, and significant increases in insurance rates depending on your license type and previous DUI convictions. These rate increases can be very significant for high-risk Georgia drivers.
A DUI is not just for drivers who operate motor vehicles under the influence of alcohol. It can also apply to those who have marijuana, prescription drugs or other illegal drugs in their system.
Rates for teenage drivers
When assessing the risk of a potential policyholder, insurance companies consider many factors. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) states that drivers aged 16-19 are more at risk than any other age group for a motor vehicle accident. Georgia teens pay higher premiums than adults for insurance because of their high-risk driving habits and inexperience. Here are some estimates of what top providers in the area charge for annual full coverage for teens who drive and add to their parents’ policies:
Your teen driver’s auto insurance rate will drop with time and experience. You may still be eligible for good student discounts from your insurance company.
Who are high-risk drivers?
Bankrate defines high risk drivers as those who are consistent with our driving profile but have at least one of the following incidents:
- At-fault accident
- Speeding ticket
- Conviction for DUI
- Coverage gaps
However, it is important to remember that the standard definition for a high-risk driver may differ slightly from the one you actually pay. The Department of Motor Vehicles defines a high-risk driver as someone who is more likely to file an insurance claim than the average driver. Drivers who are:
- Conviction for DUI
- Speeding ticket
- Participated in street racing illegally
- You were caught driving without a valid license
- Habitually driving recklessly
- You have caused a serious accident or fatality
- A poor driving record
- Are teens allowed to drive?
- High-risk vehicles include exotic cars, supercars and supercars.
- A lapse in your insurance coverage
- Are you 70 years old or older
Talk to your agent about your risk and what steps you can take in order to lower your rates.
How to lower your rate for high-risk drivers
Although it is inevitable that Georgia’s high-risk drivers will have to pay more for car insurance, there are still ways these drivers can lower their rates. Here are some ways high-risk drivers might be able lower premiums.
- Compare other carriers: Your current carrier may not be the best option for you. In some cases they might not renew your coverage, depending on the infraction. You can shop around to ensure that you’re getting the best rate possible for the coverage you need.
- Credit rating: Although your driving record is the most important factor in determining your premium, improving your credit score could also reduce your rates.
- Increased deductible: To offset your monthly premium, you can increase your out of pocket obligation if you’re able. Your monthly payment will be less expensive if you have a higher deductible.
- Discounts: Many insurance companies offer discounts for safe and defensive driving classes, driver education courses, good students, etc. To take advantage of all the discounts offered by your provider, review them.
These options may provide short-term relief from your insurance rate obligation. However, it is best to make a commitment to safer driving habits after you fall into the high-risk driver group. Your insurance rates will drop significantly if you can maintain a clean driving record for at most five years.
Questions frequently asked
What is the maximum time I am considered high-risk?
It all depends on what infraction you were charged with. A minor offense, such as a speeding ticket, can be erased from your record within one year if your criminal record is clean. However, a DUI conviction could remain on your record for up to three years. Talk to your agent about how long you will remain on their high risk profile list.
What is the average time it takes for insurance rates for high-risk drivers to drop?
It takes three to five years for high-risk drivers to see their rates drop to the average level. Insurance companies generally consider the last five years of driving record when determining your rates.
Which insurance company is best for high-risk drivers and their vehicles?
Your specific needs will determine which insurance company is best for you. When choosing the right insurance company for high-risk drivers, drivers should take into account affordability, coverage options, customer satisfaction, and discounts. To find the best provider for you, check out our top car insurance companies.
