Finding car insurance for high-risk drivers can be a challenge, as they tend to face higher premiums due to factors such as a history of accidents, traffic violations, poor credit, or young driving age. However, there are still options available for high-risk drivers, and understanding the best choices can help you secure affordable coverage. Here’s a guide to some of the best car insurance options for high-risk drivers:

1. State-Mandated Insurance Programs

If you’re having difficulty finding coverage through traditional insurers, state-mandated insurance programs may be a solution. These are government-backed programs designed to help high-risk drivers get car insurance when no other options are available.

• Non-Owner Insurance: If you don’t own a car but still need insurance to drive, non-owner insurance can provide liability coverage for driving other vehicles. Some states may offer a non-owner SR-22 insurance option for high-risk drivers.
• SR-22 or FR-44 Insurance: This is a certificate of financial responsibility that many high-risk drivers, such as those with DUI convictions or a history of driving without insurance, may be required to file with their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in order to maintain their driving privileges. Best For: Drivers with a DUI, reckless driving, or uninsured motorist violations.

2. Progressive’s Snapshot Program

Progressive is known for its flexible usage-based insurance programs, including Snapshot. This program tracks your driving habits (speeding, braking, time of day, and overall mileage) using a mobile app or device. If you’re a safe driver, you can earn significant discounts on your premiums.

• How it helps high-risk drivers: If you’re a high-risk driver but have improved your driving habits, using Snapshot can help you prove your safety on the road, potentially lowering your rates over time.
• Additional Benefits: Progressive also offers a Compare Rate tool, which helps you compare insurance quotes from multiple providers to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Best For: Drivers who want to demonstrate safe driving to lower their premiums over time.

3. GEICO

GEICO is often a go-to insurer for high-risk drivers due to its competitive rates and various discounts, even for drivers with less-than-ideal records.

• How it helps high-risk drivers: GEICO offers a range of discounts, such as multi-policy discounts (bundling auto with home or renters insurance) and discounts for defensive driving courses. If you’ve completed a driving course, GEICO may reduce your premiums, making it a good option for high-risk drivers who have improved their driving habits.
• Additional Benefits: GEICO has a mobile app that lets drivers manage their policies, file claims, and access 24/7 customer service.

Best For: Drivers who can take advantage of discounts and need a large network of available coverage options.

4. State Farm

State Farm is known for being a reliable and affordable option for many high-risk drivers. It offers a range of coverage options and discounts that may appeal to those with a poor driving history.

• How it helps high-risk drivers: State Farm offers Safe Driver Discounts for drivers who have maintained a clean driving record for a specific period. It also provides Drive Safe & Save, a program where you can get discounts based on your driving behavior (tracked through a mobile app).
• Additional Benefits: State Farm has a solid reputation for customer service and claims handling, making it a good option for high-risk drivers who want reliable support.

Best For: Drivers who have a clean record but want to keep it that way and earn discounts for safe driving.

5. Allstate

Allstate is another insurer known for offering coverage to high-risk drivers, especially with its Drivewise program. This program tracks your driving habits and rewards you with discounts for safe driving behavior, including braking and speed.

• How it helps high-risk drivers: If you have a history of accidents or violations, Drivewise allows you to prove you’re a safe driver and qualify for discounts over time. Allstate also offers discounts for bundling policies (auto, home, etc.) and for completing a defensive driving course.
• Additional Benefits: Allstate offers great customer service and a wide array of policy options, including accident forgiveness after a certain number of years without claims.

Best For: Drivers who want to reduce their premium over time by demonstrating safe driving behaviors.

6. National General

National General specializes in insuring high-risk drivers, offering coverage even for those with poor driving records, DUIs, or those who are required to file an SR-22 form.

• How it helps high-risk drivers: National General offers SR-22 insurance, which is required in many states for high-risk drivers. They also provide non-owner policies for drivers who don’t own a car but still need insurance to drive.
• Additional Benefits: National General offers options to bundle insurance policies for even greater savings and provides 24/7 roadside assistance.

Best For: Drivers who need SR-22 insurance or have a history of high-risk driving (e.g., DUIs, accidents).

7. The General

The General is an insurance company specifically designed for high-risk drivers, and they offer flexible policies for those who may have difficulty finding coverage elsewhere.

• How it helps high-risk drivers: The General specializes in offering insurance to drivers with poor credit or multiple traffic violations. The company is known for being flexible, offering competitive rates even for drivers with DUIs or recent accidents.
• Additional Benefits: While their rates can be higher than those of low-risk drivers, they still provide reasonable options for those who are considered high-risk.

Best For: Drivers with a poor driving record, those who need an SR-22, or those with financial difficulties that make it hard to get coverage from other companies.

8. Mercury Insurance

Mercury Insurance offers affordable coverage for high-risk drivers and is available in many states. They provide a range of options, including coverage for drivers with DUIs or recent accidents.

• How it helps high-risk drivers: Mercury offers SR-22 filing and policies for drivers with a history of traffic violations or accidents. They also provide several discount options, including safe driver discounts and low-mileage discounts.
• Additional Benefits: Mercury offers 24/7 customer service and a range of coverage options.

Best For: Drivers who need an affordable option for SR-22 insurance or those with less-than-perfect driving records.

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Tips for High-Risk Drivers to Save on Insurance:

• Take a Defensive Driving Course: Many insurers offer discounts for completing a defensive driving course, which can help reduce your premiums and improve your driving habits.
• Bundle Policies: Consider bundling your car insurance with other policies (home, renters, etc.) to qualify for discounts.
• Install Safety Features: Adding safety features to your car (like anti-theft devices, airbags, or an anti-lock braking system) can sometimes lower your premiums.
• Shop Around: Rates can vary significantly between insurers, so be sure to compare quotes from multiple companies to find the best deal.