When you hear the term “high-risk driver,” you might picture someone with a need for speed, a string of accidents, or multiple traffic violations. While that can be true, not every high-risk driver fits the stereotype. In fact, many end up in this category simply due to missed insurance payments or inexperience behind the wheel. Whether you’re looking for car insurance for high-risk drivers or just want to understand how insurance works, knowing what affects your insurance rates can help you make smarter decisions when choosing coverage.
What Makes Someone a High Risk Driver?
High-risk car insurance companies in Ontario classify drivers based on the likelihood of filing a claim. If you fall into any of these categories, you could face higher premiums or limited coverage options.
“Major” Traffic Violations
A DUI, reckless driving, or excessive speeding is an instant red flag for insurers. These serious infractions increase the chance of an accident, which makes insurers charge steep premiums or, in some cases, refuse coverage altogether.
Frequent Minor Infractions
Speeding tickets, running red lights, or failing to signal might not seem like a big deal, but if you rack up too many in a short period, auto insurers will take notice. A single ticket might not hurt much, but multiple violations can quickly push you into the high risk category. Most insurers use a threshold system—meaning if you cross a certain number of infractions, you’ll automatically be considered high risk. That’s why it’s always a good idea to drive carefully and keep your record clean.
At-Fault Accidents
If you’ve been in multiple accidents where you were at fault, insurance companies will see you as a higher risk for future accidents/claims. Even if they weren’t serious crashes, insurers rely on past behaviour to predict future claims.
Missed Insurance Payments
Many people don’t realize that late or missed insurance payments can push them into the high risk category even if they have a spotless driving record. If a policy is cancelled due to non-payment, it stays on your record for three years and can make getting car insurance in Ontario much harder. You also increase your chances of having to pay in full.
New or Young Drivers
Young and inexperienced drivers (typically 16 to 24 years old) are usually seen as high risk simply because they don’t have much driving history. Insurance for high-risk drivers in Ontario is often more expensive because statistics show that younger drivers get into more accidents than those with years of experience.
Luxury or High Performance Vehicles
Your car itself can impact your risk level. If you drive a sports car, luxury vehicle, or a car with performance upgrades, you may be considered high risk even if you have a clean record. Why? These cars are more expensive to repair, more likely to be stolen, and encourage faster driving. Even if you drive responsibly, insurers may charge higher premiums simply based on the vehicle’s risk profile.
How Being High Risk Affects Your Insurance Rates—And What You Can Do About It
The biggest downside of needing high risk car insurance in Ontario, is the cost. Since insurers see you as more likely to file a claim, they charge significantly higher premiums, sometimes 100% to 200% more than standard rates. Beyond cost, high-risk drivers may also face limited options. Most insurers won’t offer coverage at all, and those that do may require higher upfront payments or stricter policy terms. In extreme cases, drivers may need to turn to facility insurance, which is a last-resort option for those who can’t get approved through regular providers. Facility insurance guarantees coverage, but it comes with some of the highest premiums in the market.
Here’s what you can do to start lowering your insurance premiums and work your way back to standard coverage:
Improve Your Driving Habits
The most effective way to reduce high risk car insurance premiums in Ontario is to keep a clean driving record moving forward. Traffic tickets disappear from your record after three years, and at-fault accidents after six years. If you avoid violations and accidents during this time, insurers will start viewing you as lower risk, which can bring your rates down.
Choose a More Affordable Vehicle
Luxury vehicles, sports cars, and high-performance models are more expensive to insure. If you’re paying high risk car insurance Ontario premiums, switching to a reliable, affordable, and easy-to-maintain car can make a noticeable difference. Vehicles with good safety ratings and lower theft risks generally cost less to insure.
Raise Your Deductible
Your deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in. Increasing your deductible, say, from $500 to $1,000, lowers your premiums because it reduces the amount the insurer has to pay in the event of a claim. However, make sure you can afford the higher deductible if you ever need to file a claim.
By taking proactive steps, high risk drivers can gradually reduce their premiums and regain access to more affordable insurance options. If you’re unsure about your best course of action, working with a trusted insurance broker can help you find a plan that fits your needs.
At Keller & Associates Insurance Brokers, we know that not every driver fits into a neat box. That’s why we specialize in finding customized insurance solutions tailored to your unique needs. Whether you require high risk car insurance in Ontario or a more standard policy, we work with trusted providers to secure the best auto insurance coverage for you. If you’re looking for a dependable provider that prioritizes your needs, Keller & Associates Insurance Brokers is ready to help.