If you’ve had multiple accidents, insurance premiums and coverage options change fast. Standard carriers often drop or decline renewals for drivers with repeated claims. That’s where non-standard (or nontraditional) insurers step in — they specialize in higher-risk drivers and SR-22 filings, provide state-minimum liability, and offer pathways back to standard coverage.
This guide, focused on the United States (with examples for Florida, Texas and Ohio), outlines the best non-standard insurers to consider, realistic pricing ranges, how to compare options, and the next steps to rebuild your record.
Who needs a non-standard insurer?
- Drivers with multiple at-fault accidents in the past 3–5 years
- Drivers who were nonrenewed or canceled by standard carriers
- Drivers needing SR-22 or high-risk endorsements after serious violations
- Drivers looking for short-term, minimum-liability coverage while they repair their record
Non-standard companies accept higher risk profiles but often charge significantly higher premiums and offer more limited policy options than standard insurers.
What to expect in price (real-world ranges)
Non-standard insurers price policies based on recent claims, driving record, location, and required limits. Typical ranges for minimum liability or non-standard coverage in the U.S.:
- Low-end (cheapest states / youngest discounts): $40–$100 per month
- Typical non-standard: $75–$250 per month
- High-end (high-cost states or multiple major violations): $250–$500+ per month
State factors: Florida and Miami-area drivers often pay among the highest premiums; Texas and Ohio can vary widely between urban and rural rates. SR-22 filing fees add $25–$100 in most states (state DMV fee) plus possible insurer administrative fees. (Sources: Forbes Advisor, The Zebra, SafeAuto)
External sources used for pricing and SR-22 info:
- Forbes Advisor — Best Car Insurance for High-Risk Drivers: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/car-insurance/best-car-insurance-for-high-risk-drivers/
- The Zebra — SR-22 guide (fees, impact on premiums): https://www.thezebra.com/resources/driving/sr-22/
- SafeAuto — sample non-standard / minimum coverage carrier: https://www.safeauto.com/
Best non-standard insurers to consider (companies, strengths, pricing)
Below are widely-known non-standard carriers that serve drivers with multiple accidents. Pricing shown is typical monthly ranges for minimum liability/non-standard policies — exact quotes vary by state, vehicle, and driving history.
| Insurer | Typical monthly range (minimum liability / non-standard) | Strengths & notes |
|---|---|---|
| The General | $70–$220 | National reach; easy online quotes; accepts many high-risk profiles. Good SR-22 support. |
| SafeAuto | $50–$180 | Focused on minimum liability in many states (common in OH, KY, TX). Transparent online plans. |
| Acceptance Insurance (Drive Insurance) | $45–$150 | Strong presence in Southeast & Midwest; competitive for low-cost liability. |
| Dairyland (part of MAPFRE/Assurant partnerships) | $60–$200 | Well-known for non-standard products and roadside/legal add-ons. |
| Kemper Specialty / Infinity | $80–$260 | Offers more flexible coverage add-ons; available in selected states. |
Notes:
- These ranges are illustrative based on market data and insurer advertising; obtain a personalized quote for accuracy. (See: Forbes Advisor, SafeAuto)
- In Florida (Miami), expect the top end of those ranges or higher due to state-wide rate pressure.
- In Texas and Ohio, you may find lower mid-range rates, especially for older drivers with fewer recent violations.
How to choose among non-standard insurers
- Get multiple quotes — prices vary dramatically by carrier and state. Even with the same driving record, one insurer can be 30–70% cheaper than another.
- Confirm SR-22 support — if you need an SR-22, ask whether the insurer files it directly, the filing fee, and any related administrative costs.
- Check policy limits and exclusions — many non-standard policies only offer state-minimum liability. If you can afford higher liability limits, you’ll gain better protection.
- Compare customer service & claims handling — use J.D. Power, NAIC complaint index, and online reviews to vet insurers.
- Watch for add-ons — some carriers offer accident forgiveness after a period, towing, or rental reimbursement for an extra fee; evaluate if it’s worth the cost.
- Requalification timelines — ask how long before you’re eligible to transition back to standard carriers. (See: Best Insurance For High-Risk Drivers to Transition Back to Standard Coverage: Steps and Timelines)
State-focused tips (Florida, Texas, Ohio)
- Florida (e.g., Miami): High claim frequency & fraud risk drive rates up. Non-standard carriers will be available, but expect monthly minimum policies to run well into the $200+ range for multiple accidents. Consider raising deductibles and increasing liability if financially feasible to avoid gap exposure.
- Texas (e.g., Houston/Dallas): Competitive market — shop aggressively. Some non-standard policies here can be in the $60–$180/month band for drivers with prior accidents.
- Ohio (e.g., Columbus/Cleveland): Many non-standard insurers (SafeAuto, Acceptance) operate here with some of the more affordable minimum policies—often $50–$150/month depending on driving history.
Steps to lower your non-standard premiums fast
- Address outstanding fines/requirements (pay tickets, complete required classes) — unresolved issues add to risk.
- Maintain continuous coverage — lapses increase rates drastically.
- Complete defensive driving courses — many states or insurers offer discounts.
- Switch to safer vehicle — older, less-powerful cars with safety features often lower rates.
- Bundle policies — if available, bundling renters or life insurance may reduce cost.
- Re-quote every 6–12 months — as your record ages, standard carriers may offer better rates. See Best Insurance For High-Risk Drivers Looking to Lower Premiums: Discounts and Requalification Timelines.
SR-22, cancellations and short-term coverage
- If you need an SR-22, expect a state filing fee ($25–$100) and insurer charges. SR-22 itself doesn’t cost much, but the required high-risk policy does.
- For short-term needs while rebuilding your record, some non-standard insurers offer month-to-month minimum coverage; however, continuous coverage is critical to avoid higher future premiums. For detailed SR-22 timelines and alternatives, see Best Insurance For High-Risk Drivers With SR-22 Requirements: Filing, Costs and Alternatives.
Quick checklist before buying
- Obtain at least 3 quotes (include at least one national non-standard and one regional specialist).
- Confirm SR-22 filing capability and fees.
- Compare total annual cost (premiums + state fees + required add-ons).
- Check financial strength/claims handling (AM Best or J.D. Power ratings).
- Ask about requalification timelines and discounts.
Bottom line
Non-standard insurers provide essential coverage for drivers with multiple accidents when standard markets won’t write a policy. Expect higher premiums, especially in high-cost states like Florida, but you can control costs by shopping multiple carriers, confirming SR-22 procedures, and taking active steps to rebuild your driving record. Start with reputable non-standard carriers such as The General, SafeAuto, Acceptance Insurance, Dairyland, and Kemper/Infinity, and get customized quotes specific to your city and driving history.
Related reading:
- Best Insurance For High-Risk Drivers After a DUI or DWI: SR-22, Providers and Costs
- Best Insurance For High-Risk Drivers Looking to Lower Premiums: Discounts and Requalification Timelines
- Best Insurance For High-Risk Drivers To Transition Back To Standard Coverage: Steps And Timelines
Sources:
- Forbes Advisor — Best Car Insurance for High-Risk Drivers: https://www.forbes.com/advisor/car-insurance/best-car-insurance-for-high-risk-drivers/
- The Zebra — SR-22 guide: https://www.thezebra.com/resources/driving/sr-22/
- SafeAuto — company & coverage info: https://www.safeauto.com/