Updated April 2026
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What Affects Rates in Des Moines
- High Uninsured Driver Rate: Des Moines has an uninsured driver rate near 14%, well above the national average. Insurers price non-standard policies higher here because violation drivers are statistically more likely to encounter uninsured claims, increasing the carrier's exposure.
- Winter Weather Claims Frequency: Des Moines averages 34 inches of snow annually, with frequent ice storms from December through March. Violation drivers pay higher premiums because insurers factor in the elevated accident risk during winter months when driving records already indicate higher-risk behavior.
- Urban Traffic Density: Interstate 35 and Interstate 80 intersect in Des Moines, creating high-density commuter corridors where accident frequency is elevated. Non-standard insurers price DUI drivers higher in metro areas with heavy traffic because claim likelihood compounds.
- Limited Non-Standard Carrier Competition: Fewer non-standard insurers actively write high-risk policies in Des Moines compared to larger metro areas, reducing competitive pricing pressure. This typically adds 10–20% to premiums compared to markets with more carrier options.