Being convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) can be a life-altering experience, affecting everything from your personal freedom to your finances. One of the most significant consequences is the impact it has on your auto insurance. Following a DUI conviction, finding affordable car insurance becomes much more difficult, and the penalties are not limited to fines or legal fees—your insurance premiums can skyrocket. This article explores DUI insurance, how to get it, and what to expect in terms of rates and coverage after a DUI.
What is DUI Insurance?
First and foremost, it’s important to understand that “DUI insurance” isn’t a specific type of insurance policy. It’s simply the car insurance you’ll need after receiving a DUI conviction. The term refers to the increased rates and additional requirements that individuals face when trying to get insured after such an incident.
A DUI signals to insurance providers that you are a high-risk driver. As a result, insurers either raise your rates significantly or, in some cases, may refuse to insure you altogether. If this happens, you may be forced to find an insurer that specializes in high-risk drivers.
SR-22 Form: Proof of Insurance
After a DUI conviction, most states require you to file an SR-22 form with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This document isn’t insurance but a certificate that verifies you have the minimum required car insurance coverage. Your insurer will file this form on your behalf, and it typically comes with additional fees. If your policy lapses for any reason, the insurer is required to inform the DMV, which could result in the suspension of your driver’s license.
Not every insurance company offers SR-22 filings, and this is another reason why your insurance options may become limited after a DUI.
The Impact of a DUI on Insurance Premiums
Once you’ve been convicted of a DUI, your insurance rates are likely to increase by a substantial margin—sometimes as much as 100% or more. The exact increase depends on a variety of factors, including:
- State laws: Some states have harsher penalties and insurance regulations than others.
- Insurance provider: Some insurers may raise rates more aggressively after a DUI, while others may have more lenient policies.
- Your driving record: If your driving record was clean prior to the DUI, your increase may not be as severe as someone with multiple infractions.
- Type of car you drive: Insuring a high-performance or luxury vehicle will typically cost more than a standard car after a DUI.
How Long Does a DUI Affect Insurance?
A DUI can impact your insurance rates for several years, with most insurers looking back three to five years for DUI convictions when determining your premiums. In some states, like California, the DUI will stay on your driving record for up to 10 years, which means higher premiums for the entire duration.
During this period, it’s important to maintain continuous car insurance coverage and avoid any other driving infractions. Over time, as you prove that you’re a safer driver, your rates may gradually decrease.
Finding Affordable DUI Insurance
While DUI insurance will undoubtedly be more expensive, there are ways to lower your premiums or find more affordable options. Here are some strategies to consider:
1. Shop Around
Not all insurance companies treat DUI convictions the same way. Some specialize in providing insurance to high-risk drivers, including those with DUIs. It’s essential to get quotes from multiple companies to compare rates and find the most affordable option.
2. Bundle Policies
If you have other types of insurance, such as home or renter’s insurance, bundling these policies with the same provider may help lower your premiums. Some insurers offer discounts for having multiple policies with them, which can help offset the increased cost of DUI insurance.
3. Increase Your Deductible
Raising your deductible—the amount you pay out-of-pocket before insurance kicks in—can help lower your premiums. However, this comes with a tradeoff. In the event of an accident, you’ll have to pay more upfront before your insurance covers the rest, so make sure you can afford the higher deductible.
4. Take a Defensive Driving Course
Some states and insurers offer discounts to drivers who complete a defensive driving course. These courses aim to teach drivers safer habits and techniques, which can help mitigate the risks associated with high-risk drivers like those with a DUI conviction.
5. Look for Discounts
Even after a DUI, you may still be eligible for various discounts, such as low mileage, safe driving, or even discounts for having safety features installed in your car. Be sure to ask your insurance provider about any discounts that could apply to you.
6. Consider Installing a Telematics Device
Telematics devices, sometimes referred to as “pay-as-you-drive” devices, track your driving behavior, including speed, braking, and time of day you drive. If you demonstrate safe driving habits with one of these devices installed, some insurers may reduce your premiums. This could be particularly helpful for high-risk drivers looking to prove that they’re taking steps to drive more safely.
What Happens if You Can’t Get Insurance?
In some cases, drivers with a DUI on their record may find it impossible to get insurance from traditional providers. If this happens, you may have to rely on your state’s high-risk insurance pool, often referred to as assigned risk insurance. While this guarantees you’ll be able to get insurance, it’s often much more expensive than standard policies, making it a last resort.
DUI and Non-Owner Car Insurance
If you don’t own a vehicle but still need to maintain an SR-22, non-owner car insurance may be an option. This policy provides liability coverage when you drive a car that you don’t own, which satisfies the SR-22 requirement without the full cost of a traditional car insurance policy. This option is especially useful for people who don’t drive regularly but still need to get their license reinstated.
How to Prevent Future DUIs
The best way to avoid the costly consequences of DUI insurance is to avoid future DUI offenses. Here are some tips to prevent another incident:
- Designate a driver if you plan to drink.
- Use a ridesharing service like Uber or Lyft when alcohol is involved.
- Limit your alcohol intake and always be aware of how long it takes for your body to process alcohol.
- Invest in a personal breathalyzer to check your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) before getting behind the wheel.
Taking these steps can not only protect your driving record but also your finances, as another DUI will result in even more severe penalties and higher insurance premiums.
Conclusion
A DUI conviction can have long-lasting financial repercussions, particularly when it comes to your auto insurance. While finding affordable insurance after a DUI is challenging, it’s not impossible. By understanding your options, shopping around, and taking steps to improve your driving habits, you can minimize the financial burden of DUI insurance. Additionally, focusing on preventing future DUIs will not only keep you and others safer but also help you avoid further costly penalties.