Insurance for a high risk occupations

When it comes to car insurance, your job title can have a surprising impact on the quotes you receive. Some professions are considered higher risk than others, often leading to heftier insurance premiums for those in certain lines of work. But what makes an occupation "high risk" from an insurer's perspective, and which jobs fall into this category? Let's look into the details.

What makes an occupation high risk?

An occupation is tagged as high risk for several reasons, often related to the nature of the work, the hours kept, and even the perceived lifestyle of those in the profession. High-mileage, odd working hours, and a propensity for stress are all factors that contribute to an occupation's risk level. Insurers crunch the numbers and determine that certain jobs are associated with a higher likelihood of making a claim.

Which occupations are considered high risk?

Here are six occupations often viewed as high risk by insurance providers:

• Professional Sportspeople: The irregular hours, extensive travel, and high-value vehicles typically associated with this career make it a standout for insurers. The lifestyle deemed associated with professional athletes can also contribute to this perception.
• Couriers and Delivery Drivers: The nature of this job requires being on the road for long periods, often in busy urban environments. This increased road exposure naturally leads to a higher risk of accidents and claims.
• Entertainers and DJs: Odd hours, late nights, and the locations of their work (often in various cities or even countries) contribute to the risk. There???s also an assumption about the fast-paced lifestyle associated with these professions.
• Bar Staff and Publicans: The late hours and the potential for alcohol consumption are factors. Insurers might assume these habits carry over into personal time, increasing risk.
• Journalists: High mileage, tight deadlines, and the need to travel at short notice can make this profession more of a risk in the eyes of insurers. The unpredictable nature of news also contributes to erratic driving patterns.
• Taxi Drivers: Similar to couriers, taxi drivers spend a significant amount of time on the road, increasing their accident risk. The majority of their work also takes place in congested areas, adding to the likelihood of making a claim.

What are the insurance and legal consequences?

Being in a high-risk occupation can lead to higher insurance premiums, but the impact doesn???t stop there. In some cases, insurers may limit the cover options available or impose stricter terms. For individuals with convictions, the occupation can further complicate the insurance process, potentially leading to even higher premiums or difficulty finding cover.

How can you mitigate the impact of a high-risk occupation on insurance?

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to mitigate the impact of your occupation on insurance costs:

• Shop around: Don???t settle for the first quote you receive. Use comparison sites and speak to brokers who specialise in finding cover for high-risk occupations.
• Consider a telematics policy: These policies assess your driving habits rather than just your profession, which can help to lower premiums.
• Adjust your policy: Look at what cover you really need and adjust your policy accordingly. Opting for a higher excess can also reduce your premium.

Being in a high-risk occupation doesn???t mean you have to accept exorbitant insurance premiums. Understanding why your job is considered high risk and taking proactive steps to counteract this perception can help you find more reasonable rates.

Remember, everyone deserves fair access to vehicle insurance, regardless of their profession. If you're in a high-risk occupation and struggling to find affordable cover, it's worth reaching out to specialists who understand your unique needs. Ready to find a policy that acknowledges your situation? Click the quote button for convicted driver vehicle insurance quotes and explore your options today.