How to Get Affordable Car Insurance with a Bad Driving Record in Florida

Introduction

A bad driving record can make it difficult—and expensive—to find affordable car insurance in Florida. Accidents, speeding tickets, DUIs, and other violations can label you as a high-risk driver, leading to higher premiums or even policy denials from some insurance companies.

But even if your driving history isn’t perfect, you still have options.

This guide will show you:

• How violations affect your insurance rates
• Which insurance companies offer coverage for high-risk drivers
• Strategies to reduce your premiums
• How White Chip Insurance can help you find the best rates, even with a bad driving record

How a Bad Driving Record Affects Your Car Insurance in Florida

Your driving history plays a major role in how much you pay for car insurance. In Florida, having a bad driving record—such as tickets, at-fault accidents, or DUI convictions—can significantly increase your insurance premiums. The more violations you have, the higher your risk in the eyes of insurers, and that translates to higher costs.

Common Violations and Their Impact on Insurance Rates

Let’s break down some of the most common driving violations and how they affect your rates and record:

• Speeding Tickets (10–15 MPH Over): This typically results in a rate increase of 20% to 30% and remains on your record for about 3 years.
• At-Fault Accidents (Property Damage): If you’re responsible for a crash causing property damage, expect a 30% to 50% increase. These stay on your record for 3 to 5 years.
• At-Fault Accidents (Injury Involved): Causing injury in a crash can lead to a massive 50% to 80% hike in premiums. This stays on your record for 5 years.
• DUI or DWI (Driving Under the Influence): One of the most serious violations, this can raise your rates by 80% to 150% and will affect your record for a full 10 years.
• Reckless Driving: This offense could increase your insurance by 50% to 100%, and it typically impacts your record for 5 to 10 years.
• Driving Without Insurance: Getting caught without valid insurance can increase your premium by 25% to 50%, with the violation affecting your record for 3 years.

Best Insurance Companies for High-Risk Drivers in Florida

Not every insurance company is willing to take on high-risk drivers. However, several providers in Florida offer specialized high-risk auto insurance for those with a poor driving record, including accidents, traffic violations, and DUI charges.

Here are some of the best insurers for high-risk drivers and what makes them stand out:

• White Chip Insurance: Ideal for comparing rates from multiple insurers all in one place. They specialize in helping high-risk drivers find affordable coverage, including SR-22 certificates and non-standard policies designed for people with violations.
• Progressive: One of the top choices for drivers with at-fault accidents on their record. Progressive offers accident forgiveness and SR-22 filings for those who need it.
• GEICO: Best suited for drivers with speeding tickets. GEICO offers safe driver discounts that can still apply after minor infractions, helping reduce the cost for drivers who improve their behavior over time.
• The General: A good option for those with multiple violations or limited credit history. The General offers no-credit-check insurance policies, making it accessible to a broader range of high-risk drivers.
• State Farm: Known for flexible payment plans and supportive options for DUI or DWI drivers. They provide SR-22 policies and help high-risk drivers stay on the road legally and affordably.

How to Lower Car Insurance Costs with a Bad Driving Record

Even with a history of violations, there are ways to reduce your premiums and get back on track.

1. Compare Multiple Insurance Quotes

• Every company evaluates risk differently. Some insurers penalize violations more than others, so shopping around is essential.
• Use White Chip Insurance’s free online tool to compare rates from multiple providers in minutes.

2. Consider a Higher Deductible

• Choosing a higher deductible can lower your monthly premium.
• Just make sure you can afford the out-of-pocket cost if you file a claim.

3. Take a Defensive Driving Course

• Completing an approved defensive driving or traffic school course can help reduce points on your record and lower your insurance rates.
• Some Florida insurance companies offer up to 10% off for completing a driving course.

4. Ask About High-Risk Driver Discounts Even high-risk drivers may qualify for certain discounts, including:

• Multi-policy discounts (bundling auto & home insurance)
• Low mileage discounts (if you don’t drive often)
• Pay-in-full discounts (if you pay for six months upfront)

5. Improve Your Credit Score

• In Florida, insurers factor in your credit score when calculating insurance rates.
• Paying bills on time and reducing debt can lower your insurance premium over time.

6. Choose a Low-Cost Car to Insure

• High-performance vehicles and luxury cars cost more to insure.
• Consider a used, mid-size sedan or SUV with high safety ratings to lower your rates.

What is SR-22 Insurance and Do You Need It?

If you have serious violations like a DUI, reckless driving, or driving without insurance, Florida may require you to file an SR-22 certificate to prove that you carry state-minimum liability insurance. Luckily, White Chip Insurance offers same day, cheap SR-22 Insurance.

How Long Do You Need an SR-22?

• DUI Convictions: 3-5 years
• Multiple At-Fault Accidents: 3 years
• License Suspension Due to No Insurance: 3 years

Final Thoughts

Having a bad driving record doesn’t mean you can’t get car insurance—it just means you need to be strategic about finding the best rates. Even with a bad driving record, White Chip Insurance can find you cheap car insurance in Florida.

Next Steps:

• Use White Chip Insurance’s free online tool to compare high-risk insurance quotes.
• Ask about discounts and take a defensive driving course to lower your rate.
• Work with an expert agent to find the best plan for your needs.