How to Get Car Insurance if You Have a Poor Driving Record
Ray Cogan
How to Get Car Insurance with a Less-than-Perfect Driving Record.

A poor driving record can make it difficult to find affordable car insurance. Whether you have speeding tickets, accidents, or even a DUI, insurance companies may see you as a high-risk driver, leading to higher premiums or coverage denials. ***
However, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. If you live in Annapolis, MD., Frederick, MD., or anywhere in the DC metro area, there are ways to secure coverage at a reasonable rate.
Here’s what you need to know about getting car insurance with a less-than-perfect driving record.
Understand How Your Driving Record Affects Your Rates. Insurance companies determine rates based on risk. If your record includes traffic violations, at-fault accidents, or DUI offenses, insurers may charge higher premiums to offset the perceived risk. In some cases, certain providers may even refuse coverage. However, not all insurance companies assess risk the same way. Some specialize in high-risk drivers and offer more flexible options.
Check Your Driving Record. Before shopping for car insurance, request a copy of your driving record from the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT). This will help you understand what insurers see when they assess your application. Some infractions may drop off after a certain period, so knowing your record can give you a better idea of what rates to expect.
Look for High-Risk Insurance Providers. If traditional insurance companies in Annapolis or Frederick are offering you high premiums, consider working with insurers that specialize in high-risk drivers. These companies understand that drivers can improve over time and may offer policies with lower premiums if you maintain a clean record moving forward.
Consider a State-Assisted Plan. Maryland has a program called the Maryland Automobile Insurance Fund (MAIF), which helps high-risk drivers who are unable to obtain coverage through standard insurance providers. If you’ve been denied coverage multiple times, MAIF could be an option for securing legal car insurance. However, these policies often come with higher premiums, so it’s best to explore all alternatives first.
Take a Defensive Driving Course. Many insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who complete a defensive driving course. If you have points on your record, taking a state-approved course can show insurers that you’re committed to improving your driving skills. Some providers may even remove points from your record, which could help lower your rates over time.
Opt for a Higher Deductible. One way to lower your car insurance premium is by choosing a higher deductible. The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. While this means you’ll pay more in the event of an accident, it can significantly lower your monthly premiums.
Bundle Your Insurance Policies. If you have other types of insurance, such as homeowners or renters insurance, bundling them with your car insurance can lead to discounts. Many insurers in the DC metro area offer significant savings when you combine multiple policies under one provider.
Improve Your Credit Score. In Maryland, insurance companies can use your credit score as a factor when determining your premium. A higher credit score signals financial responsibility, which can lead to better insurance rates. If your credit score is low, work on improving it by paying bills on time and reducing outstanding debt.
Drive Safely Moving Forward. The best way to lower your car insurance rates in the long run is to maintain a clean driving record. Avoid speeding, reckless driving, and other infractions. Many insurers offer discounts for drivers who remain accident-free for a certain period.
Insurance rates vary between providers, so it’s essential to compare multiple quotes. Working with an independent insurance agency like Lindquist Insurance can save you time and money. We work with multiple insurance providers in Annapolis, Frederick, and the surrounding DMV area to find the best rates for high-risk drivers.
Finding affordable car insurance with a poor driving record doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Lindquist Insurance, we specialize in helping drivers in Annapolis, Frederick, and the DC metro area secure the best possible coverage, no matter their driving history. Contact us
today for a free consultation and let us help you get back on the road with confidence!
*** Visit the Maryland DMV website
for more information.

Whether you're grilling in the backyard in Annapolis or planning a mountain getaway from Frederick, our team is just a phone call or email away. Let’s have that conversation now, so your summer, and every season after, is secure.
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At Lindquist Insurance, we offer personal, proactive service that keeps you focused on growth, not guesswork. Whether you're expanding, hiring, or just refreshing for the season, we’re here to ensure your business is covered from every angle. Call us today at (301) 694-0008 or visit www.lindquistinsurance.com to schedule your Spring Business Insurance Checkup.
We serve the Annapolis and Frederick, MD area.

Spring brings longer days, blooming landscapes, and unpredictable weather for businesses in Annapolis and Frederick, Maryland. Storms in the Mid-Atlantic can bring heavy rain, flooding, hail, and strong winds, often leading to costly damages for business owners. That’s why now is the perfect time to evaluate your business insurance coverage and ensure you’re protected against the unique seasonal risks spring brings. *** Why Spring Storms Matter to Maryland Business Owners Maryland's spring weather is known for its volatility. Sudden thunderstorms, high winds, and localized flooding can affect both coastal towns like Annapolis and inland areas like Frederick. In 2022 alone, several businesses in Frederick County experienced power outages and property damage due to intense spring storms. Similarly, businesses near the Chesapeake Bay face storm surges and flash flooding, especially during early-season weather systems. For local businesses—from boutique shops in downtown Annapolis to industrial warehouses near Frederick’s tech corridor—spring weather disruptions can mean more than just cleanup. They can lead to business interruptions, loss of inventory, and expensive repairs. How Business Insurance Can Help Business insurance is a critical safeguard that provides financial protection when natural disasters strike. But not all policies are created equal. Understanding the specific coverages that protect against spring-related risks can make a big difference when it matters most. Here are the top types of business insurance you should review this season: 1. Commercial Property Insurance. This is the foundation of most business insurance policies. It covers your physical assets, such as your building, equipment, and inventory, if they’re damaged by covered perils like wind, hail, or lightning. If a windstorm damages the roof of your downtown Annapolis storefront or flooding ruins inventory stored in your Frederick warehouse, commercial property insurance helps cover repair and replacement costs. Be sure to check if your policy includes flood protection. You may need to purchase separate flood insurance, especially in flood-prone areas near the Chesapeake Bay. 2. Business Interruption Insurance. Also known as business income insurance, this coverage kicks in if your operations are forced to shut down due to storm-related damage. It covers lost income, payroll, rent, and other operating expenses during the downtime. Imagine a storm causes structural damage to your Frederick café, requiring you to close for two weeks. Business interruption insurance can help you stay afloat financially until you reopen. 3. Equipment Breakdown Insurance. Spring storms can lead to power surges and electrical issues, which can damage your essential equipment, like refrigerators, HVAC systems, or point-of-sale terminals. Equipment breakdown insurance helps cover the cost of repair or replacement, so your operations don't have to close temporarily. This is crucial for restaurants, retail shops, and healthcare facilities in Annapolis and Frederick that rely on specialized machinery. 4. Commercial Auto Insurance. If your business uses vehicles for deliveries, transportation, or service calls. Make sure your commercial auto insurance includes comprehensive coverage. This protects your vehicles from non-collision-related damages, including those caused by hail, fallen trees, or flooding. Local fleets operating between Annapolis and Frederick are especially vulnerable during spring travel, when roads may be slick or obstructed. 5. General Liability Insurance. Spring storms sometimes lead to unexpected hazards, like a slippery floor or fallen debris outside your storefront, that can cause injury to customers or passersby. General liability insurance covers medical costs, legal fees, and settlements if someone gets hurt on your property. This type of coverage is essential for public-facing businesses, such as those located along the bustling streets of Annapolis or in Frederick’s historic downtown district. Take These Steps Now to Stay Protected Review Your Policy with a Local Agent. Insurance needs vary depending on location, business type, and risk exposure. A local agent, like the experienced team at Lindquist Insurance, can assess your current coverage and suggest any needed updates tailored to the Annapolis and Frederick regions. 1. Document and Protect Your Assets. Take an inventory of your equipment, supplies, and property. Back up digital records and store documents off-site or in the cloud. This speeds up claims processing in the event of a loss. 2. Create a Spring Storm Preparedness Plan. Include emergency contact lists, backup power sources, evacuation procedures, and a communication plan for employees and customers. 3. Schedule an Annual Insurance Checkup. Use the changing season as a reminder to reassess your business insurance needs. Your business evolves—and so should your protection. At Lindquist Insurance , we’re proud to serve the business communities of Annapolis and Frederick, MD. Our goal is to help you weather any storm with confidence, knowing you’re covered where it counts. Whether you run a waterfront shop in Annapolis or a growing service business in Frederick, our team is ready to help you find the right business insurance solutions for the spring season and beyond. Contact our business insurance specialists today for a free business insurance review or call us at (301) 694-0008 or visit www.lindquistinsurance.com. *** For more information on Maryland weather, visit the Weather US website .

At Lindquist Insurance, we’re here to help you with your car insurance now and in the future. If you're thinking about switching your car insurance and live in Frederick, Annapolis, or Washington, DC, now is the perfect time to reach out. At Lindquist Insurance, our friendly local agents make the process simple, fast, and tailored to you. We’ll compare top providers, explain your options, and guide you every step of the way.
Call Lindquist Insurance today at (301) 694-3008 or visit www.lindquisinsurance.com to request a free, no-obligation quote.
We serve the Frederick, MD, Annapolis, MD, and Washington, D.C. areas.
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