DUI In California

Reader’s Question:

My brother can’t seem to get any car insurance company here in Sacramento, California to give him coverage. He found out that his name is actually on the state Assigned risk program, what does this mean?

Schaffer

Sacramento, CA

Hello Schaffer, the reason your brother could not get automobile insurance there in Sacramento, California would probably be due to a very tarnished driving record, such as getting caught driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI or DWI). Car insurance providers reserve the right to refuse insurance coverage to individuals who fail to qualify or whose records indicate a very high risk of exposure to or involvement in car accidents. It’s a business and car insurance providers would want to avoid as much risk as possible in their end when providing insurance coverage.

Now this doesn’t mean that your brother could no longer get insurance. This is where the State Assigned Risk Program comes in. Most states require you to carry some of form of financial capability when driving, more popularly known as auto insurance, so those who are not able to qualify for one are still given coverage, sometimes at a higher price. There’s no one company providing the coverage for these individuals. In fact, the insurance risks are being proportionally shared and accepted by car insurance providers in your state.

Your bother should focus on building a good driving history by taking defensive driving classes and maintaining continuous coverage for at least a couple of years. Staying under the State Assigned Risk Program will only cost you to pay higher insurance expenses.