Getting a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) charge can seriously affect your auto insurance. Even if your DUI case is still pending or if it ends in conviction, insurance companies usually react quickly. Knowing what happens next with your insurance can help you prepare financially and legally. This article explains how a DUI impacts your auto insurance rates, coverage, and your options going forward.
How Insurance Companies Find Out About Your DUI
Insurance companies often learn about your DUI in several ways:
-
State DMV reports: Many states share DUI records with insurers.
-
Background checks: When you apply for or renew insurance, companies check your driving record.
-
Claims investigations: If you cause an accident during a DUI, your insurer will find out.
Once they know about the DUI, your insurance risk level changes in their eyes.
Higher Insurance Premiums After a DUI
The most common effect of a DUI on your auto insurance is a rate increase. Insurers view drivers with DUI charges as risky, so they raise premiums to cover that risk.
-
Premiums can double or even triple after a DUI.
-
In some cases, rates may increase for several years—often 3 to 5 years or more.
-
The size of the increase depends on factors like your driving history, state laws, and insurer policies.
Insurance Cancellation or Non-Renewal
Some insurance companies may cancel your policy after learning about a DUI. Others may refuse to renew your policy when it expires.
If this happens, you’ll need to find a new insurer willing to cover you, which can be difficult and more expensive.
SR-22 Insurance: What Is It and When Is It Needed?
Many states require drivers convicted of DUI to carry SR-22 insurance to prove they have the minimum required coverage.
-
SR-22 is not an insurance policy but a certificate filed by your insurer with the DMV.
-
It shows you meet state requirements after DUI or other serious violations.
-
SR-22 insurance is usually more expensive than regular coverage.
-
You may need to maintain SR-22 for 3 years or more, depending on your state.
Failing to maintain SR-22 can lead to license suspension or other penalties.
What Happens If You Don’t Have Insurance After a DUI?
Driving without insurance after a DUI conviction is dangerous and illegal. If caught, you face additional penalties like:
-
Fines
-
License suspension or revocation
-
Increased difficulty getting insurance in the future
-
Possible jail time in some cases
Always keep insurance current and meet any SR-22 requirements.
How to Shop for Auto Insurance After a DUI
Finding affordable auto insurance after a DUI can be challenging but possible. Here are some tips:
-
Compare multiple insurers: Rates vary widely between companies.
-
Ask about “high-risk” insurance: Some companies specialize in insuring drivers with DUIs.
-
Maintain a clean driving record: Avoid further violations to reduce your rates over time.
-
Consider raising your deductible: A higher deductible can lower your premium.
-
Take defensive driving courses: Some insurers offer discounts for completing these programs.
Can You Avoid Insurance Increases After a DUI?
In most cases, a DUI will increase your insurance premiums. However, you can try to:
-
Shop around before renewing: Different insurers have different risk assessments.
-
Ask about forgiveness programs: Some companies offer accident forgiveness.
-
Complete court-ordered programs: This shows responsibility and might help lower rates later.
-
Maintain a clean record post-DUI: Time and good behavior reduce risk in insurers’ eyes.
Long-Term Impact on Your Insurance
A DUI stays on your driving record for several years, often 5 to 10 years depending on your state. Insurance companies usually consider your DUI during this entire period.
-
Your insurance premiums will likely remain higher until the DUI is no longer reported.
-
After the DUI falls off your record, you may qualify for lower rates again, but it varies by insurer.
Conclusion
A DUI can have serious effects on your auto insurance. Expect higher premiums, possible policy cancellations, and the need for SR-22 insurance. While it can be costly and frustrating, shopping smart, maintaining a clean record, and following court orders can help you rebuild your insurance standing over time. If you’re facing a DUI charge or conviction, it’s wise to prepare for how it will impact your insurance and plan accordingly.
