Getting charged with a DUI is stressful. You worry about court, fines, and losing your license. But that’s not all. Your insurance could take a serious hit, too. So, can a DUI wreck your insurance? Find out what happens after a DUI—and how to manage the fallout.
Understanding how a DUI affects your coverage gives you a better chance of bouncing back.
Can a DUI Wreck Your Insurance? Find Out What Happens Right Away
Right after a DUI conviction, your insurance company will probably find out. They check driving records regularly. Once they see the DUI, they may:
- Raise your rates
- Cancel your policy
- Refuse to renew your coverage
Not all companies act the same, but most will treat you as high risk. This means you’ll likely pay more, even if your record was clean before.
If your insurer drops you, don’t panic. You can still get coverage, but it may cost a lot more. You’ll need to look for companies that offer high-risk auto insurance.
Can a DUI Wreck Your Insurance? Find Out How Much It Costs
DUI-related insurance increases can be steep. On average, your premium could double or even triple. That means if you were paying $100 a month, you might now pay $200–$300.
Here’s why the cost goes up:
- Insurers believe you’re more likely to cause accidents
- You now fall into a higher risk category
- Some states require extra coverage or SR-22 insurance
An SR-22 is not insurance itself. It’s a form your insurer files with the state to prove you carry the required coverage. Some companies charge a fee for filing it. Others might not offer it at all.
So, before your current policy expires, start shopping for new quotes. Compare prices, but also check company reviews. Not all high-risk insurers are created equal.
Can a DUI Wreck Your Insurance? Find Out How Long It Lasts
Unfortunately, the effects of a DUI don’t go away fast. In most states, a DUI affects your insurance for three to five years. In some places, it could be as long as ten years.
The exact time depends on
- State laws
- Your insurance provider’s policies
- Whether this is your first or second offense
Still, not everything is out of your control. If you keep a clean record going forward, some companies may lower your rates over time. Safe driving helps you rebuild trust with insurers.
Find Out How to Minimize the Damage
Although a DUI hits your wallet hard, there are ways to limit the damage. Follow these smart steps:
- Complete all court-ordered programs, like DUI school or alcohol treatment
- Avoid more traffic violations
- Ask your insurer about discounts for safe driving, defensive driving courses, or bundling
- Drive less—some companies offer lower rates for low-mileage drivers
- Raise your deductible if you can afford it
Also, keep your credit in good shape. Some insurers use credit scores when setting rates. The better your score, the better your chance of getting affordable coverage.
Find Out If You Can Switch Providers
Yes, you can—and sometimes you should. If your current insurer raises your rates or cancels your policy, you don’t have to stay.
When switching:
- Be honest about your DUI—lying can lead to denied claims later
- Ask for SR-22 support if your state requires it
- Compare several quotes to find the best fit
Although switching won’t erase the DUI, it might save you hundreds of dollars per year.
Final Thoughts
So, can a DUI wreck your insurance? Find out the hard truth—it often does. Your rates will likely go up. You may even lose your policy. But while the road gets tougher, it’s not the end.
With the right steps, you can regain control. Stay insured, drive safely, and prove that one mistake doesn’t define you forever.
Yes, a DUI hits hard. But you can rebuild, and your driving future is still in your hands.
