There are several factors that are considered when determining if a driver is eligible for high-risk car insurance. The number of accidents you have been involved in -- whether they are your fault or not -- is the most obvious one. Your sex, age, and location (urban vs. rural) is also considered.
Carrying auto insurance for a consistent period of time is important since failure to do so implies driving without coverage or a cancelled policy. Even your credit history is examined since people with poor credit tend to file more auto insurance claims.