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Having liability auto insurance is a requirement for California drivers. Yet many people who have blemishes on their driving records encounter challenges with obtaining high-risk auto insurance (also known as nonstandard car insurance). Insurance companies calculate a person’s risk using several factors, and having a poor driving history could limit your options for obtaining a policy.
In California, drivers who fall into the high-risk category have the ability to use a program called the California Automobile Assigned Risk Plan (CAARP) to get auto insurance. Knowing how the program works helps you maintain responsibility as a driver that makes it possible to use your car to get to work and perform other essential tasks.
Determine Your Eligibility
Most high-risk drivers know their status. Usually, a person will have one or more speeding tickets or other traffic violations on his or her record. Someone who has had multiple car accidents or a single major one that lists the individual as being at fault may also struggle with getting auto insurance. If you have a DUI conviction, auto insurance companies will typically consider you to be at risk for having another one. Although teen drivers are considered to be higher risks than experienced ones, they can usually still be covered under their parents’ policies, provided the adults aren’t considered high-risk drivers as well.
Understand What the Policy Covers
Liability insurance coverage only pays for injuries or damages that occur as a result of an accident. The state of California requires you to carry a specific amount of liability coverage to ensure other people aren’t left struggling to pay for their medical care or car repairs if your actions cause an accident. Since the CAARP is a form of auto insurance San Diego and other California insurance companies are required to offer, they’ll typically only provide the basic minimum amount of liability coverage you need to comply with the law.
Plan to Pay Higher Premiums
All auto insurance companies licensed to operate in California are required to participate in the plan. They’re also required to offer the same premiums to drivers who are eligible to receive coverage through the CAARP. Since there’s a higher risk of having to pay out claims for these policies, the premiums typically cost more than those offered to drivers with positive histories. If you need high-risk auto insurance, you won’t be able to shop around for the best rates, but you can begin planning for how to improve your rates in the future.
Work on Building a Strong Driving Record
Being able to receive insurance through the CAARP program is an asset, even with the higher premiums. But it’s preferable to do your best to improve your driving record for the future. After a certain period of time, accidents and citations are removed from your driving record. If you’re able to avoid accidents and citations for driving violations, you’ll see your risk go down. Make sure to practice safe driving habits, and check into your status during upcoming renewal periods to see when you may be eligible for comprehensive auto insurance and lower premiums.
It’s always critical to make sure you have reliable car insurance for your vehicle. If you need affordable, high-quality auto or motorcycle insurance, trust the experienced team at Altra Insurance Services. For a free quote, reach out to us today.