That's interesting about the defensive driving course—I hadn't thought of that angle. A coworker of mine had a DUI a while back, and he said his rates nearly doubled overnight, even though he'd been spotless before. He ended up switching providers after shopping around and saved a decent chunk. Makes me wonder if insurance companies factor in loyalty at all, or if they're just banking on people not bothering to check elsewhere...
Yeah, loyalty means pretty much nothing in insurance. Best way to handle it: shop around, compare at least three providers, and don't be shy about switching. Good on your coworker for saving some cash...
Totally agree that loyalty doesn't always pay in insurance—companies often prioritize new customers with discounts and deals. But I'd also add, especially after a DUI, it’s crucial to look beyond just price. Some insurers specialize in high-risk drivers and offer better long-term value or more forgiving policies. I've seen folks jump ship for a cheaper rate only to get hit with brutal renewal hikes later on. Definitely shop around, but keep an eye out for stability too...
Does anyone know if these specialized insurers tend to lock you into longer contracts or have hidden fees? I'm all for stability, but worried about getting stuck somewhere that's not budget-friendly long-term...
I had a similar worry when I switched to a specialized insurer after a minor accident a few years back. What I found helpful was carefully reading through the fine print step-by-step—tedious, I know, but worth it. Mine didn't lock me into anything long-term, but there were definitely some sneaky fees if I canceled early or changed coverage mid-contract. I'd suggest asking directly about cancellation policies and fees upfront... better safe than sorry later.
