Although it’s human to make mistakes, some can have significant repercussions, particularly on your insurance policy. A poor driving record can lead to the cancellation of your car insurance policy due to “increased risk”.
Finding a new insurer can then become a difficult and expensive task. You might have to turn to an insurer that specializes in “non-standard” cases, which often results in higher premiums and limited coverage.
Are you having trouble insuring your vehicle? Assurance Multi-Risques is here to answer your questions and help you find car insurance despite a complex profile.
What Is a High-Risk Driver?
A high-risk driver is someone who is considered by an insurer to be at a greater risk of accidents or violations. This can be due to:
- A criminal record: Including a history of drunk driving or hit-and-run offenses.
- Too many claims: Multiple claims, even for minor incidents, can label you as high-risk.
- Poor credit history: Insurers have found that people with below-average credit ratings are more likely to make a claim.
- A licence suspension: For speeding, impaired driving, or unpaid fines.
- Termination of insurance: For non-payment of premiums or false declarations.
Of course, each insurer has its own criteria and definitions of what constitutes a high-risk driver.
The Impact on Your Insurance Premium
Your history can have a significant financial impact on the calculation of your premium.
High-risk drivers are considered more likely to make a claim in the event of an accident or offense. To compensate for this risk, your insurance premium increases and will be higher than that of a driver with a standard profile.
To reduce your premium, you can opt for basic coverage, such as civil liability insurance, rather than all risk insurance.
How to Get Insured Despite a Complex Profile?
Your driving history, your driving behavior, and your financial difficulties have a direct impact on your insurance file. It can be more difficult to get insured with a high-risk profile, but there are always solutions!
Be Transparent
It is crucial to always be transparent with your insurer or damage insurance broker. Provide complete and honest information regarding your driving record, criminal record, and the reasons for your insurance difficulties.
Omitting important information can lead to the cancellation of your contract or a denial of claim in the event of a loss.
Paying a slightly higher premium for valid insurance is better than having low-cost insurance that does not protect you when you need it.
Prepare Your File
Be ready to provide all necessary documents to your insurer so they can properly assess your situation. If necessary, request your criminal record with a selective index from the courthouse or have a copy of your SAAQ driving record ready.
Adopt Responsible Driving Habits
Restoring your image with insurers requires time, patience, and clean driving. Some serious offenses can remain on your record for several years, so respect the Highway Safety Code, avoid speeding, and drive carefully. Most importantly, avoid worsening your situation with new infractions on your record.
Good behavior on the road will allow you to gradually regain a good driver profile. After a period without incidents, you will be able to renegotiate the terms of your insurance contract or reduce your premiums.
What to Do If You Still Aren’t Insured?
Contact a Specialized Insurance Broker
At AMR, our independent brokers are experienced in working with insurers who accept high-risk profiles. They can advise you and help you find insurance that suits your needs. Our team has the expertise to support you when you are facing insurance challenges.
If your broker is unable to find you car insurance, you can contact the Groupement des assureurs automobiles (GAA) in Quebec. This organization can compel an insurer to cover you for the mandatory civil liability coverage.
Look Toward the Future!
Being classified as a high-risk driver can be discouraging, but it is not a life sentence. With careful behavior and the support of our insurance experts, it is possible to regain a positive image with insurance companies.