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How can I get a cheaper insurance policy with a bad driving record?

Is there a way for me to get a cheaper insurance policy with my checkered past? I have had terrible luck the last few years: two accidents and three speeding tickets. I have State Farm right now and the rate is just too high! I know it was my fault, but I can't keep paying so much.

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Shannon Martin · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Accidents and tickets can impact your insurance premium for up to five years, which can feel like forever! Thankfully, there are some actions you can take now to lower your rate.
The first thing to look at is discounts. The biggest bang for your buck will be the defensive driving discount, which gives you 5-25% savings when you take a state-approved defensive driving course. Check with your
State Farm
agent to see if this is an option.
Other discounts to look into include:
  • Telematics discount
  • Safety features discount
  • Carpool discount (this could be a good incentive to start carpooling if you don’t already)
  • Multi-line discount
  • Alumni and professional organization discounts
If you are unhappy with your rate once all eligible discounts are applied, it’s time to shop for a
cheaper insurance
policy.
Not every insurance company rates prior accidents and tickets the same way. You might find a better rate with a non-standard carrier like
The General
.
Download the free
Jerry
app to start comparing quotes from up to 50 insurance providers, including non-standard ones.
View full answer 
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