Insurance with a DUI

Getting a DUI can be a traumatic experience, but the consequences don’t end after you’ve served your sentence. If you’re looking for car insurance, you’re probably wondering how a DUI will affect your rates. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of insurance with a DUI, so that you can make an informed decision about your coverage.

What is a DUI?

A DUI, or driving under the influence, is a serious offense. It occurs when a driver operates a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In most states, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher is considered legally intoxicated. If you’re pulled over and found to have a BAC over that limit, you can be arrested and charged with a DUI.

The consequences of a DUI can be severe. In addition to fines and jail time, you may also lose your license and face higher insurance rates. But don’t worry – there are steps you can take to minimize the impact of a DUI on your insurance.

How does a DUI affect your insurance rates?

After a DUI, your insurance rates will almost certainly go up. This is because insurance companies consider drivers with DUIs to be high-risk, which means they’re more likely to get into accidents and file claims.

Exactly how much your rates will increase depends on a variety of factors, including your location, driving history, and the severity of your DUI. In general, you can expect your rates to go up by at least 50%, and possibly as much as 200% or more.

Can you still get car insurance with a DUI?

Yes, you can still get car insurance with a DUI. However, it may be more difficult and expensive than it would be otherwise. Some insurance companies may refuse to cover you altogether, while others may charge you exorbitant rates.

Your best bet is to shop around and compare rates from multiple companies. Some insurers specialize in high-risk drivers, so they may be more willing to work with you. However, keep in mind that these companies may still charge higher rates than other insurers.

What kind of coverage do you need after a DUI?

After a DUI, you’ll need to have certain types of coverage in order to meet your legal requirements. These may include:

Coverage Type
Description
Bodily injury liability
Covers injuries that you cause to others in an accident
Property damage liability
Covers damage that you cause to someone else’s property in an accident
Uninsured/underinsured motorist
Covers you in case you’re hit by a driver who doesn’t have enough insurance
Personal injury protection (PIP)
Covers medical expenses and lost wages for you and your passengers in case of an accident

How can you save money on car insurance with a DUI?

Although insurance rates after a DUI are typically high, there are some steps you can take to lower your premiums. These include:

  • Shop around and compare rates from multiple insurers
  • Increase your deductible
  • Take a defensive driving course
  • Install anti-theft devices in your car
  • Drive a car with a high safety rating

FAQs

Q: Can I be denied car insurance because of a DUI?

A: Yes, some insurers may refuse to cover you if you have a DUI on your record. However, there are also companies that specialize in high-risk drivers, so it’s worth shopping around.

Q: How long will a DUI affect my insurance rates?

A: A DUI will typically stay on your record for 3 to 7 years, depending on the state. During that time, you can expect your insurance rates to be higher than they would be otherwise.

Q: What if I don’t own a car?

A: If you don’t own a car but still need to drive, you may be able to get non-owner car insurance. This type of insurance provides liability coverage for drivers who don’t own a car but still need to drive occasionally.

Q: Do I need to tell my insurance company about my DUI?

A: Yes, you’re legally required to tell your insurance company about any DUIs on your record. Failure to disclose this information could result in your policy being cancelled or invalidated.

Q: Can I get my rates lowered after a DUI?

A: Yes, it’s possible to lower your rates after a DUI by taking steps like shopping around, increasing your deductible, and taking a defensive driving course.

Q: What if I can’t afford insurance after a DUI?

A: If you can’t afford insurance after a DUI, you may be able to get help through your state’s high-risk insurance pool. These pools provide coverage for drivers who are unable to get insurance through other means.