If you’re a high-risk driver, you know it. You might be young and inexperienced or have been in a few accidents. Maybe you’ve gotten some speeding tickets. Whatever the reason, insurers see you as a greater risk than other drivers and charge you higher rates for car insurance. But what exactly makes you a high-risk driver? Here’s a look at some of the factors that can raise your rates.
Speeding or driving recklessly
Driving recklessly or exceeding the speed limit is a surefire way to put yourself at risk not only of car accidents but of being penalized by traffic laws. Careless driving can cause serious accidents and loss of life, making reckless drivers an extreme hazard to both themselves and other motorists on the road.
According to Motor1, high-risk drivers are also exposed to increased insurance costs and potentially higher fines for their wrongdoing. Although you may think that speeding will get you where you need to go faster, it’s important to remember that it also increases your risk in many ways.
Driving responsibly is always the safest option – leaving plenty of space between your car and others on the road, obeying all speed limits and traffic laws, and double-checking your mirrors before changing lanes are some easy first steps toward reducing your chances of incurring damage or putting yourself in harm’s way.
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can have serious and potentially fatal consequences, as dangerous situations on the road can arise from consuming substances that cloud your judgment.
When you drive while impaired, you are putting yourself, your passengers, and other drivers at a high risk of suffering severe injuries or death in case of an accident.
It is essential to exercise caution when operating a vehicle, and if you plan on drinking or using drugs, designate a sober driver beforehand. Taking this small step of prevention will make sure everyone stays safe on the road.
Texting while driving
Texting while driving not only places your own life at risk but those of the other drivers and pedestrians around you as well. It increases your chance of being involved in a serious car accident and can be accountable for a range of physical, emotional, and financial damage caused by an accident.
It’s easy to become distracted from focusing on the road when your eyes are glued to the screen in front of you, so it’s important to remember that taking away your focus from the task ahead dramatically increases your chances of crashing into another vehicle or a member of the public.
Not wearing a seat belt
Driving can be a dangerous activity, which is why it’s so essential for drivers to wear seat belts at all times. Not wearing a seatbelt puts you and other drivers on the road in serious danger.
Studies have shown that wearing a seatbelt greatly reduces your risk of serious injury or death in a car crash; without it, the risks are significantly higher. Because of this, drivers who do not wear seatbelts become at high risk on the road, putting themselves and other people at risk of harm or worse. It is always important to remember – buckle up!
Driving without insurance
Driving without insurance is incredibly dangerous and poses serious risks, not only to those driving without adequate coverage but to other drivers on the road. Not only does it put you at risk of paying out of pocket for any damages following an accident, but it can also lead to having your license suspended or revoked, potential jail time, and even higher car insurance payments down the line.
The consequences could ultimately put a major strain on your wallet and even more importantly – your well-being. Therefore, having adequate car insurance is extremely important in order to remain a safe driver on today’s highways.
Road rage
Road rage is a serious issue on the roads that can lead to dire consequences. It is unacceptable behavior as it involves drivers losing control of their emotions, resulting in unsafe driving and aggressive behavior such as honking, cutting off other cars, and physical confrontations.
Not only does road rage increase the risk of collisions or accidents, but it could make you personally liable for any damages caused. Someone found guilty of road rage-related charges could be met with hefty fines, points on their license, and even jail time.
When feelings of aggression come up while driving, the best thing to do is take a deep breath, find a safe area to pull over, and consider your options if another driver is provoking you. Road rage should not be taken lightly; it makes you a high-risk driver that cannot be trusted behind the wheel.
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, speeding or driving recklessly, texting while driving, not wearing a seatbelt, driving without insurance, and road rage are all dangerous habits.
They can lead to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident caused by one of these dangerous habits, please contact our office for a free consultation. Our experienced personal injury attorneys can help you seek the compensation you deserve.