Insurance and DUI: Know Your Options

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense that can have a major impact on your life, including your car insurance rates. If you are convicted of DUI, it can be difficult and expensive to get car insurance. However, it’s important to know your options and understand the requirements for getting coverage. Here’s what you need to know about car insurance and DUI.

What is DUI?

DUI, or driving under the influence, is a criminal offense that occurs when a driver operates a vehicle while impaired by drugs or alcohol. In most states, the legal limit for blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08. However, some states have lower limits for certain drivers, such as commercial drivers or those under the age of 21.

If you are caught driving under the influence, you will likely face criminal charges and could lose your driver’s license, pay fines, and even face jail time.

How Does DUI Affect Your Car Insurance?

If you are convicted of DUI, it will be difficult and expensive to get car insurance. Insurance companies see drivers with DUI convictions as high-risk, and may charge significantly higher rates or even deny coverage altogether. This is because drivers with DUI convictions are more likely to be involved in accidents, leading to higher claims costs for insurance companies.

Will Your Insurance Company Find Out about Your DUI?

If you are convicted of DUI, your insurance company will likely find out through your driving record or criminal background check. In some cases, you may be required to file an SR-22 form with your state’s department of motor vehicles (DMV), which provides proof of insurance to the DMV and may require you to pay higher premiums.

Even if your insurance company doesn’t find out about your DUI right away, they may still raise your rates if your driving record shows a pattern of risky behavior, such as multiple traffic violations or accidents.

How to Get Car Insurance After a DUI

If you are convicted of DUI, it’s important to know that you still have options for getting car insurance. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Shop Around

Not all insurance companies treat DUI convictions the same way, so it’s important to shop around and compare rates from different providers. Some companies specialize in high-risk drivers and may offer more affordable rates than others.

2. Consider Non-Standard Insurance

If you are unable to get coverage from a traditional insurance company, you may need to consider non-standard or high-risk insurance. These policies typically have higher premiums and may offer less coverage than traditional policies, but they can help you meet the legal requirements for driving.

3. Maintain a Clean Driving Record

After a DUI conviction, it’s important to maintain a clean driving record to show insurance companies that you are a responsible driver. This means avoiding traffic violations, accidents, and DUI convictions in the future.

FAQs

Conclusion

Getting car insurance after a DUI conviction can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. By shopping around, considering non-standard insurance, and maintaining a clean driving record, you can find coverage that meets your needs and budget. Remember, it’s always better to drive sober and avoid the risks and consequences of driving under the influence.