In the auto insurance industry, “non-standard” insurance comprises the types of policies given to higher-risk drivers. In general, these policies include the same protections and specifics as regular coverage — the difference is that the premiums are more expensive (Fitzpatrick, “What Is Non-Standard Auto Insurance?”). Non-standard insurance can also include those who do not own their own car but still drive one.
You are likely to find non-standard insurance policies from major companies that sell them separately from their usual policies. However, there are also a large number of independent insurers who specialize in policies for high-risk drivers.
Reasons You Might Qualify
Most of the time, assessing you as exceptionally risky for the insurance provider comes down to age, a history of traffic violations or DUI, having to carry an SR-22 form, or driving a car with a salvage title:
Age
Age is actually the biggest factor in issuing non-standard insurance across the states, meaning that teens tend to pay more in premiums than adults with a DUI-related accident (Fitzpatrick, “How Age Affects Car Insurance Costs”).
Traffic Violations
From infractions like speeding tickets to causing an accident, your driving record plays a large role in determining your insurance premiums. Drivers with more violations will face higher premiums, and accumulating too many violations could mean being slated for non-standard insurance.
SR-22
Drivers who have been convicted of driving under the influence or committing reckless driving may be required by law to carry an SR-22. During the time in which you have to carry this form, insurance agencies will place you in their tier of non-standard insurance.
Driving a Salvaged Car
If you drive a car with a salvage title, you will likely have to pay non-standard insurance. You may be able to find some insurers who offer coverage if a vehicle has been rebuilt, but this is unlikely to include comprehensive or collision coverage.
You Drive but Don’t Own a Car
If you frequently drive but do not own your own car, you will fit into the non-owner insurance tier, which larger companies often offer for more reasonable rates than non-standard insurance.
Improve Your Driving Record on Non-Standard Insurance
While you are working to qualify for standard insurance again, a non-standard policy gives you time to maintain a clean record, take driving courses, improve your credit, and prevent theft (“What Is Non-Standard Auto Insurance?”). All of these will help you regain the standing needed for lower premiums in the future.
Works Cited
1. “What Is Non-Standard Auto Insurance?” AgileRates.com, www.agilerates.com/what-is-non-standard-auto-insurance/.
