Driving under influence (DUI) is a serious offense that can have severe consequences including fines license suspension even jail time. In addition legal penalties a DUI conviction can also have a significant impact on your auto insurance rates. In this article we will discuss auto insurance for drivers with a DUI including how it can affect your rates what steps you can take obtain coverage.
First it's important
understand how a DUI conviction can affect your auto insurance rates. Insurance companies consider DUI convictions be high-risk behavior meaning that they are more likely result in an accident or other insurance claim. As a result drivers with a DUI conviction can expect pay significantly higher auto insurance rates than drivers without a conviction. The exact amount that your rates will increase will depend on a variety factors including your driving history severity offense policies your specific insurance company.
In many cases drivers with a DUI
conviction will be required file an SR-22 form with their state's Department Motor Vehicles (DMV) in order maintain their driving privileges. An SR-22 is a certificate financial responsibility that proves DMV that you have necessary auto insurance coverage legally operate a vehicle. While not all states require an SR-22 many do drivers who are required file one can expect their auto insurance rates increase even further.
If you are driver with a DUI
conviction it's important shop around for auto insurance coverage in order find best rates. Not all insurance companies treat DUI convictions same way so it's important get quotes from multiple providers compare rates coverage options. In addition there are several steps that you can take improve your chances obtaining affordable auto insurance coverage including:
Attending a defensive driving course:
Some insurance companies offer discounts drivers who complete a defensive driving course which can help offset increased cost coverage for drivers with a DUI conviction.
Maintaining a clean driving record:
While a DUI conviction will remain on your driving record for several years maintaining a clean driving record in years following your conviction can help demonstrate insurance companies that you are a responsible driver.
Choosing a lower-risk vehicle:
The type vehicle that you drive can also affect your auto insurance rates. Choosing a lower-risk vehicle such as a sedan or minivan can help reduce your rates.
Bundling policies:
Many insurance companies offer discounts customers who bundle multiple insurance policies such as home auto insurance.
conclusion
drivers with a DUI conviction can expect pay significantly higher auto insurance rates than drivers without a conviction. However by shopping around for coverage attending a defensive driving course maintaining a clean driving record choosing a lower-risk vehicle bundling policies drivers with a DUI can improve their chances obtaining affordable auto insurance coverage. It's important work with an experienced insurance agent who can help you navigate process find coverage that best meets your needs.
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