Why does a driver with recent traffic convictions pay more for insurance?

A driver with recent traffic convictions pays more for insurance primarily because they tend to have more collisions. Insurance companies evaluate the risk associated with a driver based on their history, including any violations or accidents. Traffic convictions are indicators of risky driving behavior, which statistically correlates with a higher likelihood of future accidents. Therefore, insurers consider these individuals to be higher risk, resulting in increased premiums to cover the potential costs associated with accidents.

In contrast, the other options do not effectively explain the higher insurance costs. Driving fuel-efficient vehicles or the frequency of driving does not necessarily correlate with a driver's safety record or accident history. Similarly, being viewed as safer drivers is not applicable in this context, as recent traffic convictions suggest a failure in safety standards rather than a demonstration of safe driving behavior. Thus, the presence of traffic convictions directly impacts how insurance companies assess risk, leading to higher premiums.