If a policyholder lets their auto insurance coverage lapse, insurers will consider them a high-risk driver. That's because it's illegal to drive without coverage. Insurers treat a lapse in coverage almost like a moving violation. That means the motorist will be relegated to high-risk auto insurance. Most insurance companies still provide coverage. However, people can expect to pay higher premiums. The surcharge a person will pay for going without insurance varies from one company to the next. Shop carefully to find cheap car insurance for a bad driving record.