How Does a DUI Conviction Affect Your Insurance?
Getting a DUI is a big deal. With this conviction you will lose your license for at least thirty days depending on the laws of the state in which you live. When you do receive your license back you will be required to carry a special type of insurance called SR22 insurance. This lets the insurance company know that you are a high-risk driver, and therefore you rates are going to rise dramatically.
State laws differ - Depending on the state in which you live, you are going to lose your license for a minimum of 30 days up to a year if it is your first offense. If you have had a previous DUI, you will lose your license for a longer period of time as well as further raise your insurance rates. Each state is different, so be sure to look up the laws for your individual state.
SR22 Insurance - SR22 insurance is a requirement for anyone who has had a DUI conviction on their record. The court in which you were convicted will give you a SR22 form to take with you to the insurance company when you become eligible to receive your driver’s license back. This form will let the insurance company know that you have been convicted of a DUI, and that you are no longer to be considered a safe driver. The insurance company is required by law to report your payments to the state. If your monthly payment is not paid, or if your premium is allowed to lapse, it will be reported to the state in which you received your DUI. They may suspend your license further for not complying with your court order to keep insurance on your vehicle.
Safety - When you have received a DUI for driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, you are considered a high risk to the insurance company. Many insurance companies do not accept high risk drivers. You will probably have to go with an insurance company that specializes in high risk drivers and pay the large price tag that goes along with it. Your rates will be at least double what they were before your DUI.
Safety while driving is the key to lower insurance rates. You should never operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs; both for your own safety as well as the safety of others on the road as well.