None Standard Auto Insurance

Standard auto insurance is for drivers the insurance company considers a lower risk. Nonstandard car insurance is for high-risk drivers, who have been canceled, nonrenewed, have had a serious infraction or have repeat accidents. If you cannot qualify for a standard auto policy, your only option may be nonstandard insurance. Understanding the difference between standard vs. nonstandard car insurance may help you get the right coverage and insurance rate. It may also help you avoid behaviors that could deem you a high-risk driver.

What makes you a nonstandard driver?

Nonstandard insurance was created for high risk driver unable to obtain a standard car insurance policy. But who is considered high risk? Auto insurers typically qualify the following drivers as nonstandard or high risk:

• New drivers: Young Driver often face high premiums because they risk being involved in accidents. Inexperienced drivers with repeat accidents or tickets may need to find coverage from a nonstandard insurance company.
• Foreign driver’s license: A visitor or temporary resident may not be eligible for standard auto insurance as a driver with a U.S. license.
• Lapse in coverage: Not having continuous auto insurance makes drivers riskier to insurance companies, especially considering car insurance is required in most states.
• Incidents on driving history: Speeding tickets, car accidents or a DUI conviction could flag a driver as nonstandard. The severity and frequency of the incidents, plus the insurance company’s comfort with risk, can affect whether a risky driver is ineligible for standard car insurance.
• Required to carry an SR-22: Drivers who had their license suspended or revoked may have to file an SR-22 certificate as proof they have at least the required minimum auto insurance coverage needed in their state.

The scenarios above could all classify a driver as a higher risk to insure. New or foreign drivers or those with a history of accidents or lapse in coverage may be viewed as more likely to be involved in future accidents and costly claims. An auto insurer may not offer standard coverage, or if they do, premiums could be higher.