A DUI conviction drastically affects your car insurance by classifying you as a high-risk driver, which can lead to significantly higher premium rates. As a result, you may be required to file an SR-22 certificate to maintain your driving privileges. While standard carriers might drop your policy, specialized insurance agencies can help you compare options and secure the necessary coverage.
Dealing with the aftermath of a DUI conviction (driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs) can feel stressful and uncertain. You might be worried about fines, your driver’s license, and question how the situation will affect your car insurance. It’s a tough spot to be in, but you’re not alone, and getting back on the road with proper insurance is possible.
Read on to learn how a DUI could impact your car insurance rates and how a trusted agency like Infinity Insurance Agency, Inc. (IIA) can help.
What are DUI, DWI, and OWI?
Depending on what state you live in, you may be issued a DUI, DWI, or an OWI.
- A DUI stands for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- A DWI stands for driving while intoxicated
- An OWI is operating under the influence
All of these are convictions for driving after consuming alcohol and/or drugs. Specifications for DUI, DWI, and OWI vary from state to state; in some states DUI and DWI are used interchangeably.
What happens to your car insurance right after a DUI?
The initial consequences of a DUI or DWI conviction depend on many factors, including the severity of the incident. Often, a DUI can have an immediate impact on your car insurance rate as many insurers may raise your premium or even cancel or refuse to renew your policy. These effects can happen because DUI drivers are often classified as “high-risk drivers,” and may likely file costly insurance claims.
In addition to higher premiums, penalties may include:
- License suspension
- Steep fines
- Substantial legal fees
- Points on your license (state-dependent)
- Possible jail time
If you’re wondering how long it takes after a DUI for your auto insurance prices to go down, the truth is; it depends. Your insurer may not learn about the conviction right away, but they often find out at your next policy renewal or when an SR-22 filing is required. Because driving under the influence significantly impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time, insurers view it as reckless and dangerous behavior. The increased risk of accidents may lead insurance companies to classify you as a high-risk driver and charge you a higher premium.
Premium increases can vary state by state depending on laws, your insurance carrier, and other personal factors. Here are some examples of average rate increases after a DUI based on different states and insurance providers:
- Arizona: average annual premium increases by 101%
- California: average annual premium increases by 147%
- Florida: average annual premium increases by 53%
- Illinois: average annual premium increases by 83%
- Texas: average annual premium increases by 67%
A DUI conviction can cost you more than just a hiked-up premium. As a DUI is a serious offense, you may need to pay out of pocket for fines, court costs, and other legal expenses. Depending on your state of arrest, specific lawyer fees, bail, and bond, you could expect to pay up to $25,000 for your DUI.
Understanding SR-22 and FR-44 requirements
After a conviction such as DUI or DWI, you may be required to file an SR-22. An SR-22 is not auto insurance coverage, but a certificate of financial responsibility you may need after a serious driving violation. This form certifies that you carry the minimum car insurance coverage required by your state. There are three different types of SR-22:
- Non-owner SR-22: Non-owner (or operator) SR-22 that can cover the driver, not any specific vehicle
- Owner: Can cover vehicles you own
- Operator/owner: Can cover vehicles you own or drive
In some states, such as Florida and Virginia, you may be required to file an FR-44, which has higher liability coverage requirements than an SR-22, but serves the same function of allowing you to drive legally again.
Not all insurers offer filings for SR-22 or FR-44, or cover high-risk drivers, which means you may need to switch providers. Luckily, IIA carriers can handle the filing quickly and efficiently, so you can get back on the road as soon as your auto insurance policy is active.
Call 1-855-478-3705 to speak with a knowledgeable IIA agent to get started with your filing today.
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A step-by-step guide to getting insured after a DUI
If you’ve had a DUI and feel overwhelmed about the process of getting back on the road, you’re not alone. At IIA, we’ve helped drivers make the process smoother by helping them understand their options so they can get coverage that fits their needs. Here’s what you need to know about getting car insurance after a DUI:
- Know your state's requirements: Before shopping for car coverage, it’s important for you to familiarize yourself with the coverage(s) your state requires all drivers to have. If you are required to file an SR-22 or FR-44, it’s important to do so as soon as possible so you can drive legally.
- Prepare for higher rates: Insurance premiums typically increase after a DUI, which can be stressful. As frustrating as it may be, don’t worry; it’s typically not permanent. Over time, as you maintain a clean driving record, your rates may come down again.
- Shop around: One of the most important steps of finding affordable coverage is taking the time to find options and compare rates. Insurance companies evaluate risk differently, so quotes can vary. Comparing multiple insurers gives you a better chance of finding one that fits your needs and budget.
- Work with an agency like IIA: Working with a trusted agency like IIA can save you time and effort. We show you a range of affordable quotes from our 20+ expert carriers, so all you have to do is choose the one that works best for you. Call an agent at 1-855-478-3705 to get started!
- Consider a non-owner policy if needed: If you don’t currently own a vehicle but need to file an SR-22 to reinstate your driver’s license and driving privileges, a non-owner policy can be a good affordable solution. An agency like IIA can help connect you with carriers that offer this type of policy.
Have a DUI on your record and need auto insurance? Call today to speak with an IIA agent and get a quote for affordable coverage tailored to your situation.
How to lower car insurance costs after a DUI
Looking to reduce your increased premium after a DUI? An increase in your insurance rate after a conviction may be out of your control, but you can use certain strategies to counter the hikes and keep your premium as affordable as possible:
- Drive Safely: Avoid accidents and traffic violations as best as you can, so they don’t appear on your driving record. Maintaining a clean record can help lower your rates over time and is one of the main ways you can keep prices low after a DUI.
- Complete a defensive driving course: Complete an approved course to show insurers that you’re a cautious and safe driver, which may make you eligible for additional discounts.
- Ask about discounts: Many providers offer savings opportunities, such as multi-car discounts, driving improvement courses, paying in full, and more. Other useful car insurance discounts include the safety features discount or going paperless.
- Enroll in telematics: Insurance programs that track driving habits may reward safe practices like smooth breaking and avoiding speeding with potential savings.
- Maintain continuous coverage: Avoid letting your policy lapse to prevent unnecessary increases in your premium.
- Re-shop your policy annually: As time passes after a DUI (typically 3-5 years), your rates are likely to improve. Be sure to get an updated annual quote from IIA to take advantage of potential savings.
Answering common questions (FAQ)
How long does a DUI affect car insurance?
A DUI can impact your insurance rates for years in most states, though the exact timeline varies depending on factors like your driving record and insurer.
How much does car insurance increase after a DUI?
Rate increases vary depending on insurers, and often the average increases vary by state.
Does insurance cover a DUI accident?
It depends on your insurer and policy. Your auto insurance may cover damages from a DUI-related accident, but you could face higher deductibles (for collision and comprehensive coverage), policy restrictions, or even cancellation of your policy afterward.
How long is a DUI on your record?
The period varies by state, but on average, a DUI can stay on your record for 5-15 years, or may remain on your record permanently, depending on local laws.
How IIA can help
A DUI or DWI can be overwhelming to deal with. You may be dealing with legal fees, fines, or even possible jail time. While car insurance may not be at the top of your mind in that situation, maintaining the right coverage is essential, especially since insurance premiums can often increase after a conviction.
At IIA, we work with high-risk drivers, including those with less-than-perfect records, to help them find the coverage options they need. By comparing rates from over 20 specialized carriers, we do the hard work for you, so you can focus on choosing the best available option.
If you need support after a DUI or want to explore your car insurance coverage options, call IIA at 1-855-478-3705 to speak with a Spanish-bilingual agent ready to help!
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