What makes someone a high-risk driver?
You may fall into one of the categories for being a high-risk driver without even realising it.
Speeding violations
Even if you’ve only got a single speeding violation on your licence, it can put you in the high-risk category. If your speeding conviction resulted in points on your licence or even a ban, that will have an immediate effect when you come to renew your insurance.
Young drivers
Because of their age and inexperience, insurance providers regard young drivers as high-risk. So, the premiums on even the most basic third-party-only insurance will reflect this. According to the government’s website*, young drivers aged 17-24 are more likely to have an accident in the first two years of driving than older new drivers.
Senior drivers
At the other end of the scale, senior drivers (those over 70) are also seen as a statistical risk. This is mainly due to poorer eyesight and slower reactions. Most incidents involving senior drivers are at lower speeds but still account for an increasing proportion of road traffic incidents in the UK.
Drunk and drug driving convictions
If you have been convicted of driving under the influence of drink or drugs, you are immediately shifted into the high-risk category once you get your licence back. This can last for several years before you start to see your premiums decrease.
High-risk vehicles - How can your car put you into the high-risk category?
High-performance cars attract a higher insurance premium, but other factors can also affect how much you pay. Your location, how the vehicle is stored, and the model can all increase your premiums.
To counter this, adding extra security features (such as immobilisers) and ensuring the vehicle is kept in a locked garage can help reduce the cost of your car insurance.
FAQs
How much does it cost?
The cost will depend on your age, location, the vehicle to be insured and your driving record.
How can I reduce my risk level?
Additional driver training with an approved provider such as RoSPA or the IAM can help reduce your risk factor. Adding security to your vehicle or storing it in a garage can also help. If you have points on your licence, they will eventually be removed, allowing you to start building up a clean driving record again and reduce your insurance costs in time.
Will my postcode put me at high risk?
If your area has a high level of vehicle theft, it can significantly affect your risk factor. Again, it’s a matter of using approved security measures (such as those recommended by testing agencies like Thatcham).
Talk to Park Insurance for affordable high-risk car insurance
We understand how financially difficult it can be to get high-risk driver insurance at a price you can afford. This is why we work with the UK’s most respected insurance providers to find high-risk motor insurance that is both effective and affordable.
Our team work with you to source the best car insurance for high-risk drivers by getting to know you and your individual situation. All you have to do is use our no-obligation online form to get a free quote or talk in confidence to one of our trained advisors today.