Finding affordable and reliable car insurance can be difficult, especially if you’re classified as a high-risk driver. In the United States, insurance companies use risk assessment factors to determine your premium, and if you’ve had multiple violations, accidents, or lapses in coverage, you may find yourself facing higher rates. However, being a high-risk driver doesn’t mean you’re out of options.
There are several insurance companies in the US that specialize in or are more flexible with high-risk drivers. In this guide, we’ll explore who is considered high-risk, what to look for in an insurance provider, and the best insurance companies that offer competitive rates and flexible coverage for high-risk drivers.
Who Is Considered a High-Risk Driver?
Insurance companies label drivers as “high-risk” based on several factors. Here are some common reasons:
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Multiple at-fault accidents
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DUI or DWI convictions
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Reckless or careless driving violations
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Numerous speeding tickets
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Poor credit history (in states where credit is factored)
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Young or inexperienced drivers
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Gaps in insurance coverage
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High-performance or exotic vehicle ownership
Each insurance company has its own definition of high-risk, but these factors typically lead to higher premiums or even denial of coverage from some insurers.
What to Look for in Insurance as a High-Risk Driver
When you’re considered high-risk, not all companies will offer you a policy. The best ones for high-risk drivers will provide:
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Competitive pricing despite the risk level
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SR-22 filing if required (for drivers with DUI/DWI or severe violations)
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Discounts for safe driving, defensive driving courses, or telematics
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Flexible payment plans and bundling options
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Opportunities to improve your driving record and reduce premiums over time
Now let’s explore the top car insurance companies for high-risk drivers in the US for 2025.
1. Progressive
Why It’s Great for High-Risk Drivers
Progressive is one of the most high-risk-friendly companies in the country. They accept drivers with poor records and provide customizable coverage at relatively competitive rates.
Key Features
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SR-22 filing available
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Snapshot program offers usage-based discounts
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Large national coverage and digital tools
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High acceptance rate for drivers with violations
Best For: Drivers with multiple tickets or accidents looking for tech-savvy tools to monitor and improve driving behavior.
2. GEICO
Why It’s Great for High-Risk Drivers
GEICO offers affordable rates even for drivers with less-than-perfect records. While not exclusively focused on high-risk customers, GEICO often has better rates compared to others in the market.
Key Features
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Easy online quoting and management
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Defensive driving course discounts
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Excellent customer service reputation
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Offers SR-22s in most states
Best For: Drivers seeking a national insurer with solid pricing and excellent customer experience.
3. The General
Why It’s Great for High-Risk Drivers
The General is known for insuring high-risk drivers, including those with poor credit or serious violations. It markets directly to people who may have been denied coverage elsewhere.
Key Features
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Accepts drivers with multiple violations
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SR-22 filing available
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No-credit-check policies in many states
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Quick online approval
Best For: Drivers with major infractions, credit problems, or coverage gaps.
4. Dairyland Insurance
Why It’s Great for High-Risk Drivers
Dairyland specializes in non-standard auto insurance and is ideal for people with driving records that disqualify them from traditional insurers.
Key Features
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Flexible payment options
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SR-22 support
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Motorcycle and car insurance options
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Discounts for policyholders with improved driving
Best For: High-risk drivers seeking a reliable provider with flexible payment plans.
5. Bristol West (A Farmers Company)
Why It’s Great for High-Risk Drivers
Bristol West is a sub-brand of Farmers Insurance that offers coverage specifically tailored to drivers with challenging records.
Key Features
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Designed for non-standard drivers
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Accepts a wide variety of violations
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SR-22 filings supported
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Offers discounts and add-ons like roadside assistance
Best For: Drivers with DUI convictions or long histories of claims.
6. SafeAuto
Why It’s Great for High-Risk Drivers
SafeAuto focuses on minimum liability and low-cost coverage for drivers who struggle to get insurance elsewhere. They are ideal for budget-conscious high-risk drivers.
Key Features
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Fast online application process
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SR-22 insurance available
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Affordable basic coverage
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Offers 24/7 customer service
Best For: Drivers looking for state-minimum liability coverage at low rates.
7. National General
Why It’s Great for High-Risk Drivers
National General (owned by Allstate) offers coverage for drivers with previous violations and accepts applications from those with unique insurance needs.
Key Features
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Accident forgiveness available
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Accepts high-risk drivers
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Offers multiple discounts
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SR-22 filing supported
Best For: High-risk drivers seeking policy flexibility and bundling options.
8. Infinity Insurance
Why It’s Great for High-Risk Drivers
Infinity focuses on non-standard policies and works extensively in areas with a high population of drivers needing special coverage, including immigrants and bilingual drivers.
Key Features
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Bilingual service and online support
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Affordable monthly payments
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Accepts new and international drivers
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Good option for urban drivers
Best For: New immigrants, bilingual drivers, and people in urban areas.
9. Direct Auto Insurance
Why It’s Great for High-Risk Drivers
Direct Auto offers insurance to those who need flexible payment schedules and immediate proof of coverage, even with poor driving records.
Key Features
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Pay-as-you-go payment options
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Offers roadside assistance
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SR-22 forms filed quickly
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Available in many states across the South and Midwest
Best For: Drivers looking for fast approval and budget flexibility.
10. Acceptance Insurance
Why It’s Great for High-Risk Drivers
Acceptance Insurance is known for working with drivers who have been denied elsewhere. They provide state-minimum liability coverage and flexible policy options.
Key Features
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SR-22 form filing
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Flexible down payments
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Discounts for safe driving, military, and more
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In-person locations in multiple states
Best For: Drivers who prefer face-to-face customer service and local support.
Tips for High-Risk Drivers to Lower Insurance Costs
Improve Your Driving Record
Avoid speeding tickets and drive defensively to qualify for better rates in the future.
Take a Defensive Driving Course
Some insurers offer discounts for completing an approved driving class.
Consider Usage-Based Insurance
Programs like Progressive’s Snapshot or GEICO’s DriveEasy reward safe, low-mileage drivers.
Bundle Policies
If possible, bundle your car insurance with renter’s or homeowner’s insurance to get a multi-policy discount.
Shop Around Regularly
Rates can vary widely, especially for high-risk drivers. Compare quotes every 6–12 months.
Being a high-risk driver may come with challenges, but it doesn’t mean you’re stuck with unaffordable or inadequate coverage. The key is to choose an insurer that understands your needs and offers flexible options, reasonable premiums, and tools to help you improve your risk profile.
Companies like Progressive, The General, GEICO, and Dairyland have earned strong reputations for working with drivers who need a second chance. Whether you’ve had a DUI, multiple accidents, or just started driving, the right insurance company is out there for you.