What is an Assigned Risk Plan? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

An assigned risk plan is a type of auto insurance program available in all U.S. states. It is designed for drivers who are unable to obtain insurance through standard insurance markets due to various reasons, such as having a poor driving record or being a new driver. In these plans, all licensed insurers participate, sharing the risk of insuring these drivers. The coverage provided is proportional to the premium paid. If the premiums collected are insufficient to cover the losses incurred, insurers may be assessed additional costs, which are then distributed among all policyholders. Assigned risk plans are also known as joint underwriting facilities.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A new driver with no prior insurance history may apply for an assigned risk plan after being denied coverage by traditional insurers. They will be placed in a pool where multiple insurers share the risk.

Example 2: A driver with multiple traffic violations may find it difficult to secure insurance. They can turn to an assigned risk plan, where they will receive coverage, albeit at a higher premium due to their risk level. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Assigned Risk Plan Features
California Offers a specific assigned risk plan called the California Automobile Assigned Risk Plan (CAARP).
Florida Has a similar program known as the Florida Automobile Joint Underwriting Association (FAJUA).
New York Utilizes the New York Automobile Insurance Plan (NYAIP) for high-risk drivers.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
Assigned Risk Plan A program for high-risk drivers to obtain auto insurance through a collective pool of insurers.
Standard Auto Insurance Insurance policies offered by insurers to drivers who meet typical underwriting criteria.
Non-Standard Insurance Coverage options for drivers who do not qualify for standard insurance due to higher risk factors.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself needing an assigned risk plan, start by contacting your state's department of insurance or a licensed insurance agent. They can guide you through the process of applying for coverage. Additionally, consider exploring US Legal Forms for templates that can help you manage your insurance needs effectively. If your situation is complex, seeking professional legal advice may also be beneficial.

Quick facts

  • Available in all U.S. states.
  • Participation from all licensed insurers.
  • Coverage is based on premiums paid.
  • Insurers may be assessed to cover losses.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

An assigned risk plan is an insurance program that allows high-risk drivers to obtain auto insurance through a collective pool of insurers.