Car Insurance After a DUI Conviction

Criminal penalties for driving under the influence include jail time, fines, and a driver’s license suspension. However, there are other costly consequences of a DUI. Most drivers’ auto insurance rates will increase following a drunk driving arrest. Some insurance providers will even drop you from coverage.

Auto insurance policies and DUI laws vary by state. Talk to a local DUI attorney to find out how a DUI will affect your car insurance premiums. Contact an experienced DUI attorney to see how you can avoid paying higher premiums after a DUI arrest.

Will My Car Insurance Rates Go Up After a DUI?

Your auto liability insurance will increase after a conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI). Law enforcement will report your suspended license, DUI arrest, and drunk driving conviction to the state motor vehicle agency. Your insurance company will also learn about the suspended license and the DUI arrest.

Drivers with a DUI arrest present a higher risk for insurance liability coverage. With a higher risk of an accident, your insurance company will want more money for property damage and personal injury coverage. Your insurance company can increase your insurance costs, fail to renew your policy, or cancel your insurance coverage.

How Much Will Insurance Rates Increase After a Drunk Driving Arrest?

The rate increase for your car insurance policy after a DUI will depend on several factors. Factors that can affect DUI insurance rates include:

• Driving record
• Type of vehicle
• Driver’s age
• Accident history
• Prior DUIs or traffic violations
• Coverage area
• Time passed since the DUI
• Type of coverage
• Annual mileage
• Credit record

A few drivers may only experience a slight increase in their insurance premiums. Other drivers may see their rates increase by 50% or even double. The higher insurance rates will generally continue for three years. However, you could continue to have higher rates after other accidents or traffic violations.

Will My Current Insurance Company Drop Me After a DUI?

Many insurance providers will not renew coverage for a driver with a DUI. In most states, insurance companies are not required to cover anyone, including drivers with a drunk driving conviction or other serious traffic violations. The insurance company may find that drivers with a DWI on their record are at higher risk, and they do not want the liability for high-risk drivers.

You probably need to continue driving after a DUI. If your insurance company doesn’t renew your policy, you must get a new one from another insurance provider.

Can I Still Get Car Insurance After a DUI Charge?

Most drivers can still get car insurance after a DUI conviction. However, car insurance companies may charge much more to cover high-risk drivers. Try your existing auto insurance company first. They may have policies that will cover you after a DUI case. Contact other insurance companies for a quote if your insurance company won’t cover you after a DUI.

If you can’t get coverage from any insurance provider, contact your state motor vehicle department. States have auto insurance pools for high-risk drivers. You may qualify but will likely pay higher insurance premiums.

What Can I Do To Lower My Rates After a DUI?

There are few options to lower your increased insurance rates. You can shop around for a new insurance provider with lower rates. Alternatively, you can reduce your coverage or only buy the state minimum coverage. However, ensure you have enough coverage to protect yourself and your family in an accident.

The best way to lower your insurance rates is the passage of time. Keep your driving record clear of new traffic infractions, vehicle offenses, or auto accidents. After a few years with a good driving record, your insurance rates should return to pre-DUI rates.

How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Driving Record?

The time a DUI stays on your driving record depends on state law. In most states, your driving history will show your DUI offense for five to 10 years. However, a DUI will stay on your driving record in some states forever.

A DUI can stay on your criminal record forever. In some states, you can have a prior criminal charge expunged or have your record sealed. This will keep it out of background checks and public searches. However, the court system may still see your criminal history.

What Is SR-22 Coverage?

An SR-22 is a form your insurance company files with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The DMV needs an SR-22 form on file as proof of your insurance. SR-22 insurance provides proof of financial responsibility after a drunk driving conviction. If your insurance company drops you or you don’t have the SR-22 requirements, your driver’s license will be suspended. You may have to keep SR-22 status for three years or more.

Not all states require proof of financial responsibility. Check with your state’s insurance requirements after a DUI.

How Can a DUI Attorney Help?

A drunk driving conviction is expensive. With higher insurance rates, fines, and DUI school, a one-time mistake can cost you thousands of dollars. However, if your attorney can avoid a misdemeanor conviction, you may not need to worry about higher insurance rates. A DUI defense attorney can review your case and explain your legal options.

Your criminal defense lawyer can challenge inaccurate breath test results to keep the evidence out of court. Your DUI attorney can also negotiate to get reduced charges or deferred prosecution to keep a DUI off your record. Contact a DUI defense attorney for legal advice after a DUI arrest.