How a DUI Conviction Can Affect Your Car Insurance Policy

A DUI (driving under influence) conviction can cause your car insurance rates to increase dramatically. If you have gotten a DUI, your insurance premiums may double (in some cases, it could triple) when your car insurance carrier finds out. But, other things can happen that may make your car insurance experience horrible.

Will Your Car Insurance Rates Increase After A DUI?

Yes. When you are convicted of a DUI, you become a risk to all car insurance companies. If you previously had a "preferred driver" policy (a preferred driver car insurance policy will have much lower insurance premiums than high-risk drivers) your insurance rates could triple. Your rates will increase because your car insurance carrier will consider you a financial risk. If they underwrite a car insurance policy for you, they may lose money if you have a car accident that causes substantial damage.

What Is An SR-22 Certificate?

An SR-22 is called a Proof of Insurance certificate and identifies you as a person who has been convicted of a DUI. Many times, you can file an SR-22 through your car insurance company. However, in some cases, your insurance carrier may not have an SR-22 policy. That is, they don't offer car insurance policies to those who have a DUI on their driving record.

When you file an SR-22 through your car insurance company, your insurance carrier must file it with the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles). Once your SR-22 is filed at the DMV, any car insurance company will have access to it. When you have an SR-22 on file, car insurance companies will consider you a high-risk driver.

Can Your Car Insurance Policy Be Canceled?

Absolutely. If your car insurance company finds out about your DUI conviction, they can decide to cancel your policy. You will be forced to find another car insurance carrier to insure you, given your high-risk driver status. Your car insurance provider can also decide to simply not renew your policy at the end of its term.

Finding a new car insurance policy after your DUI presents problems, as well. Some insurance companies will insure your car. Others will not as your DUI may imply a greater financial risk to them.