Insurance companies will likely consider you a high-risk driver if you have a speeding ticket, accident, or DUI on your driving record. Your insurer will probably view you as more likely to file a claim, and you’ll almost always pay more for car insurance than a driver with a clean record.
Depending on your level of risk, some insurers may even refuse to provide you coverage. Fortunately, you can still find the insurance coverage you need with the right steps. This article explores which insurers provide the best coverage for high-risk drivers in Georgia, as well as ways to improve your driving record.
Factors that determine high-risk status in Georgia
Your driving record plays a significant role in how much you pay for car insurance. If your driving record is less than ideal, your insurance company might view you as a high-risk driver.
“Insurance companies use data from previous policyholders to determine the risk that you will file a claim,” explains Jesse Cunningham, an independent, licensed insurance agent and owner of online insurance platform Bauple. Some factors that determine high-risk driving status include:
Traffic violations and tickets: Most insurers will consider you a high-risk driver if you have multiple traffic violations or tickets in the last three to five years.
Accidents and claims: If you’ve been involved in more than one at-fault accident, you’ll likely be considered a high-risk driver.1
Credit score and financial history: A low credit score and shaky financial history may also result in you being labeled a high-risk driver.1 But Georgia law prohibits insurance companies from using credit information as the only factor in setting insurance rates, so your credit score holds less weight than in some other states.2
Age and driving experience: Drivers without much experience, like teenagers, are also often seen as high-risk drivers and may have a difficult time securing affordable coverage.1
Vehicle type and usage: If you drive a car that’s expensive to repair or replace, your insurer may consider you high risk, as even one collision could result in an expensive claim.3
History of DUIs: If you have a history of DUIs, you’ll almost certainly pay more for car insurance and may even be denied coverage.1
Lapses in coverage: Georgia drivers are legally required to carry the state-minimum liability insurance.4 If you’ve had any lapses in coverage, your insurer may consider you a high-risk driver.
Best Georgia auto insurance companies for high-risk drivers by violation
The cost of car insurance can vary dramatically depending on your driving history. But your car insurance costs will also vary depending on the insurance company you choose. Some insurers are more generous to drivers with spotty driving records than others. Below, you’ll see some of the best insurers for high-risk drivers.
Best car insurance for Georgia high-risk drivers with an at-fault accident
You can almost always expect your insurance rates to increase if you’re found at fault for an accident, but you can still find affordable rates with some insurers.1 State Farm and Auto-Owners Insurance offer the cheapest monthly rates for drivers with a history of accidents.
Best car insurance rates for high-risk drivers in Georgia with a DUI
You can expect your car insurance rates to skyrocket if you get a DUI. Some insurers may even refuse to cover you, and the state may require you to obtain SR-22 insurance. In Georgia, State Farm and Auto-Owners Insurance offer the most affordable monthly rates for drivers with a DUI.
Best auto insurance for Georgia high-risk drivers with speeding tickets
Speeding tickets may seem like a minor traffic violation, but even they can cause your insurance rates to go up — and especially if you get multiple tickets. State Farm and Auto-Owners Insurance both offer affordable monthly rates to drivers with speeding tickets on their record.
Cheapest Georgia car insurance companies for high-risk drivers with poor credit
Your credit score is another factor that can influence how much you pay for car insurance. However, Georgia prohibits insurance companies from using credit history as the sole factor in determining insurance rates.2 While the quality of your credit score will affect your rates, it won’t have as significant of an effect as it would in other states.
Auto-Owners Insurance, State Farm, and Allstate offer the cheapest rates for drivers with bad credit.
How to find affordable car insurance for high-risk drivers in Georgia
High-risk drivers will almost always pay more for car insurance, but you can still find affordable rates. Here are some ways to reduce how much you pay for car insurance:
Take advantage of discounts. Most insurance companies offer discounts on auto insurance, such as discounts for bundling your home and auto insurance, or low-mileage.5
Drive a safe vehicle. Some insurance companies will offer you a discount if your car has certain safety features, like anti-theft systems and child locks.1
Improve your credit score. Insurers consider your credit score when setting rates, so improving it may help you lower your premium.5 Focus on paying down debt and paying your bills on time to improve your score.
Take a defensive driving course. You may be able to earn cheaper insurance rates by taking a defensive driving course. Look for insurers that offer this discount before enrolling in a course.1
Shop around. One of the best ways to find cheap car insurance is by comparing quotes from multiple insurers. Insurance companies often offer different rates for the same coverage, so it’s worth comparing to see which company works best for you.
How to improve your driving record and lower your car insurance rates in Georgia
The best way to lower your insurance rates is by improving your driving record. It’s one of the most significant factors in how much you pay in premiums.
Some ways you can begin improving your driving record include:
Be a defensive driver and maintain good driving habits.
Take steps to protect your vehicle from theft, like always locking your car.1
Always have a plan for how you’re going to get home if you plan to drink.
Buy a vehicle with numerous safety features.1
Sign up for a telematics program that tracks your driving and rewards safe driving behavior.