Need car insurance as a high-risk driver? Compare the 5 best companies for DUIs, accidents, or poor credit in 2025, plus proven tips to lower your rates over time.
Introduction: What Makes a Driver “High-Risk”?
Insurers classify drivers as high-risk based on:
✔ Recent accidents (especially at-fault)
✔ DUI/DWI convictions
✔ Multiple traffic violations
✔ Poor credit history
✔ Lapse in coverage
In 2025, high-risk drivers pay 102% more than standard premiums (III Report). But specialized insurers can help.
(Source: Insurance Information Institute 2025 High-Risk Report)
Top 5 Best Insurance Companies for High-Risk Drivers
1. Progressive – Best for DUI Drivers
Why It Stands Out:
- DUI forgiveness programs after 3 years
- Snapshot® program can reduce rates by 20% post-DUI
- Online SR-22 filings (in most states)
2025 Average Rates:
| Risk Factor | 6-Month Premium |
|---|---|
| Clean Record | $650 |
| 1 DUI | $1,980 |
| 2+ DUIs | $3,200 |
Drawback: Steep premiums for multiple offenses
(Get quote: Progressive High-Risk Insurance)
2. GEICO – Best for Accident-Prone Drivers
Key Benefits:
- Accident forgiveness (available after 5 claim-free years)
- Large nationwide network of repair shops
- Good driver reinstatement after 3 years
2025 Rate Comparison:
- 1 At-Fault Accident: +45% surcharge
- 3+ Accidents: +120% surcharge (vs. competitors’ 150%+)
Best For: Those with minor violations (speeding tickets, fender benders)
(Details: GEICO High-Risk Coverage)
3. Dairyland – Best for SR-22 Needs
Specializations:
- Non-owner SR-22 policies from $45/month
- Motorcycle coverage for high-risk riders
- Flexible payment plans (weekly/monthly)
State Availability: 42 states (not MA, MI, or NJ)
Pro Tip: Their “Second Chance” program lowers rates after 12 months of clean driving.
(Learn more: Dairyland SR-22 Insurance)
4. The General – Best for Very Poor Credit
Credit Score Flexibility:
- No minimum score requirement
- Approvals in as little as 5 minutes
- Down payments as low as $50
2025 Rates by Credit Tier:
| Credit Score | Monthly Premium |
|---|---|
| 300-579 | $220 |
| 580-669 | $180 |
| 670+ | $140 |
Caveat: Higher lapse-in-coverage fees than competitors
(Apply: The General Quote Tool)
5. State Farm – Best for Long-Term Improvement
Rehabilitation Programs:
- Steer Clear® (15% discount for defensive driving course)
- Drive Safe & Save™ (up to 30% off for good habits)
- Minor violation forgiveness (first speeding ticket waived)
Rate Reduction Timeline:
| Clean Driving Period | Avg. Premium Drop |
|---|---|
| 1 year | 12% |
| 3 years | 35% |
| 5 years | 50% |
(Program details: State Farm High-Risk Solutions)
High-Risk Insurance Costs by Violation (2025)
| Violation | Avg. Rate Increase | Duration on Record |
|---|---|---|
| DUI/DWI | +85%-120% | 3-10 years (varies by state) |
| At-Fault Accident | +45%-75% | 3-5 years |
| Reckless Driving | +60%-90% | 3-7 years |
| Speeding (20+ MPH) | +25%-40% | 3 years |
| Driving Without Insurance | +30%-50% | 2-3 years |
(Data: NAIC 2025 Surcharge Report)
5 Ways to Lower Your Rates Over Time
1. Complete a Defensive Driving Course
Savings: 5-15%
Approved Providers:
2. Install a Telematics Device
Best Programs:
- Progressive Snapshot® (save up to 30%)
- State Farm Drive Safe & Save™ (up to 30%)
3. Improve Your Credit Score
Fast Fixes:
- Dispute errors on credit reports
- Keep credit utilization under 30%
Impact: 20-40% rate difference between poor/fair credit
4. Choose a Higher Deductible
Typical Savings:
- 500→1,000 deductible = 15-25% lower premium
5. Re-Shop Every 6-12 Months
When to Switch:
- Violations age off your record (typically 3-5 years)
- You improve credit by 50+ points
State-Specific High-Risk Solutions
Assigned Risk Pools
For Drivers Denied Everywhere Else
- California: CAARP (caarp.org)
- New York: NYAIP (nyainsurance.com)
- Florida: FRP (floir.com)
Avg. Cost: 2-3x standard market rates
FAQs
Q: What’s the absolute cheapest high-risk car insurance?
A: For most drivers:
- The General (worst credit)
- Dairyland (SR-22 needs)
- Progressive (DUIs)
Q: How long do violations affect my rates?
A:
- DUIs: 3-10 years (varies by state)
- Accidents: 3-5 years
- Speeding tickets: 3 years
(State-by-state guide: DMV.org Violation Timeline)
Q: Can I get insured same-day with a DUI?
A: Yes! These providers offer instant SR-22 filings:
- Progressive (online in 15 mins)
- The General (5-min approvals)
- Dairyland (same-day certificates)
Also Check
- Non-Owner Car Insurance Coverage Explained
- Pay-Per-Mile Car Insurance: The Complete 2025 Pros & Cons Guide
- Low-Mileage Discount Auto Insurance: Guide to Saving Money
- Best Car Insurance for New Drivers: Top Picks & Savings Tips
- Affordable Health Insurance Options for College Students in 2025
Next Steps to Get Covered
- Gather documents (license, violation records)
- Get 3-5 quotes (use The Zebra)
- Ask about rehabilitation programs
- Consider telematics to start lowering rates
Need Help? Free High-Risk Insurance Consultation