DUI Conviction - How Does It Affect Your Car Insurance?

Drunk driving may not be a serious offense but it has serious consequences. Other than having your license suspended, you may end up paying for fines and facing a jail sentence. One of the serious effects of a DUI conviction is on your car insurance policy. Most states automatically report to car insurance companies whenever a policy holder is convicted of DUI. Consult your insurance company immediately if you are facing a DUI charge. Although informing them beforehand will not have a good effect in your policy, you will at least get an idea of what to expect. After all, convicted or acquitted a DUI in your record will have various effects on your insurance policy.

> Higher Premiums

A DUI conviction automatically qualifies you for a "high-risk" driver status. Irresponsible driving puts the car at higher risk. It is only natural that the insurance provider will increase your premium. Furthermore, some insurance company will keep the DUI offender's rates high until the penalty points are removed from the DMV record. The length of time varies from state to state. It can take from about 2 years to 55 years, depending on the graveness of the offense and the state you belong.

> Cancellation

Getting a higher premium is only a minor consequence to having your insurance policy cancelled. There are insurance companies that would refuse to continue insuring a policy holder that is at higher risk. Insurance companies take a DUI conviction seriously. The chance of getting a low insurance rate from another insurance provider is minimal or even nigh to impossible. Most insurance companies check the DMV for inconsistencies on potential policy holders. Once they are informed of a past DUI record, they may quote a higher rate.

> SR-22

After a DUI conviction, some states require an SR-22. An SR-22 should come from your insurance policy. The state wants to verify if you have an active insurance policy. The SR-22 will be submitted to the DMV regarding the status of the insurance policy. One the insurance policy lapse, your license will be revoked. However, not all insurance organizations provide SR-22. This could be a major problem since you would be forced to look around for another insurance company. However, with a DUI in your record, you will have a hard time convincing insurance companies about your driving skill and reputation.

In the end, it is better to not drink and drive. Know your limits and know when to stop.

For the most up-to-date information, click on the following links:

DUI Conviction <== Click Here

DUI Penalties <== Click Here

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