NEED TO KNOW
Non-standard auto insurance offers insurance coverage for high-risk drivers.
- Non-standard insurance is for high-risk drivers who may have difficulty getting coverage with some insurance providers.
- Taking specific steps over time can help reduce your risk - and eventually, your cost.
- Finding quality coverage is important. Companies like Focus Auto Insurance specialize in offering high-risk drivers excellent coverage that meets their needs and budgets.
What Is Non-Standard Auto Insurance?
Every driver is familiar with car insurance, but not everyone is aware that there is more than one type of auto insurance. Non-standard auto insurance is specifically designed for drivers who may not qualify for more traditional coverage. Driving history, past accidents, or lapses in coverage may put you into a “high risk” category, and some insurance companies choose not to cover high risk drivers. Non-standard auto insurance often has higher premiums, it helps drivers stay legally insured and financially protected.
Who Needs Non-Standard Auto Insurance?
Auto insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all. Many drivers qualify for standard policies with competitive rates, but others may fall into a category insurers consider “higher risk.” Non-standard auto insurance exists to fill this gap.
Insurance companies assess risk using multiple factors. Common situations that might land drivers in the high-risk category:
- Poor or limited credit history
- Multiple traffic violations or accidents
- DUI or serious driving offenses
- Lapsed insurance coverage
- Young or newly licensed drivers
Coverage options in non-standard policies are typically similar to standard ones, including liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. However, policyholders may face higher deductibles or more limited payment options.
Despite the higher cost, non-standard insurance serves an important purpose: it keeps drivers legally insured and gives them a chance to lower their risk over time.
Key Features of Non-Standard Auto Insurance Policies
Non-standard car insurance coverage does not differ that much from standard coverage.
· Available coverage: liability, collision, comprehensive and other types of protection offered by standard insurance companies.
· Pricing: non-standard auto insurance is typically more expensive than standard insurance. Making your payments on time and avoiding any further traffic infractions or accidents may help reduce your costs over time.
· State Minimum Coverage Requirements: non-standard auto insurance can help you meet your state’s minimum legal requirements and avoid fines and citations for driving without the right coverage.
How to Choose the Right Non-Standard Insurance Company
When choosing non-standard coverage, it’s important to focus on both affordability and adequate protection. Because non-standard coverage can be more expensive than standard coverage, it’s important to make sure you’ve chosen the right provider for your needs.
· Compare quotes from multiple non-standard insurers. Rates can often vary significantly between companies, so shopping around is important
· Don’t focus on price alone. Make sure you know what the policy includes—such as liability limits, deductible amounts, and any optional coverage.· Consider your financial situation. Choosing the lowest premium or trying to get by with only minimal coverage could leave you open to unplanned financial expenses in the event of a serious accident.
· Work with a reputable agent or insurance company. If a rate or quoted coverage sounds too good to be true, it probably is! Look at customer reviews, company reputation, and financial stability.
· Don’t be embarrassed. Needing non-standard car insurance is a common issue among drivers. Needing an SR22 certificate, having multiple traffic citations or otherwise fitting in the high-risk category is no reason for embarrassment. Focus Auto Insurance is here to help drivers just like you and make sure you’re covered on the road.
FAQs
Your Top Questions Answered
Insurance doesn’t have to be confusing. Check out some of our most popular questions below, or dive into our full FAQ for everything you need to know.
Want to learn more? Explore the FAQs
Not sure what coverage you have?
Take a few minutes to review your policy online — Focus customers can log in anytime at focusinsurance.com to check coverage or make updates, 24/7.
EXPLORE MORE ARTICLES
Recent Blogs
What is Non-Standard Auto Insurance?
Non-standard insurance is for high-risk drivers who may have difficulty getting coverage with some insurance providers.
Understanding How Car Insurance Fits Into Your Fin...
Car insurance is more than just a legal requirement. It’s really part of your own personal financial protection plan, so you don’t face unexpected expenses when you’re in an accident.
Rideshare & Delivery Drivers
Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft can be a great way to earn extra income as a rideshare driver. You may think that your personal car insurance policy will cover you if you’re using your own car for these apps or others like DoorDash and Instacart. You will likely need an entirely different policy should you have an accident while working for one of these companies.
Real Life Driving: Fall Auto Care Keeps You Safe o...
The leaves are falling and so are the temperatures. You might not realize that the change in seasons can affect your vehicle.
Is My College Student Covered by My Auto Insurance...
Sending your student off to college is exciting — and maybe a little nerve-wracking. Between dorm shopping and tuition paperwork, car insurance probably isn’t top of mind, but it should be. Making sure your student is covered can save you stress (and money) later.
Understanding Your Insurance: Do You Need Uninsure...
Being in an accident can be scary, stressful – and expensive, especially if the other driver doesn’t have car insurance. Uninsured Motorist coverage helps you avoid paying out of pocket expenses for damages to your car or medical bills caused by a driver with no insurance.
What to Do If Your Auto Insurance Gets Canceled: A...
What to Do If Your Auto Insurance Gets Canceled: A Step-by-Step Guide
SR-22s Explained: What They Are and How They Affec...
When you buy car insurance, you’ll need to choose a deductible. That is the amount you pay out-of-pocket you agree to pay before your auto insurance pays for any damages. Before you choose a deductible, here’s a few quick facts to guide your decision.
No Car Insurance? What Happens After an Accident
When you buy car insurance, you’ll need to choose a deductible. That is the amount you pay out-of-pocket you agree to pay before your auto insurance pays for any damages. Before you choose a deductible, here’s a few quick facts to guide your decision.
Insurance Doesn't Have to Be Stressful
Ready to see how simple it can be?