P.J. Miller - Retired Partner
Drinking and driving is dangerous to you, other drivers and pedestrians, and there is never a reason to get behind the wheel while intoxicated. In addition to potentially injuring or even killing someone, your auto insurance will be affected and you may be faced with finding new coverage and paying more out of pocket. P.J. Miller explains what happens to your car insurance rates and coverage after you are convicted of a DUI.
Is there such a thing as “DUI car insurance?”
No, the term infers that the person has been convicted of the offense and the current auto insurance carrier will not continue the policy, whether due to the fact that they don’t insure anyone with a serious offense, or they don’t have the ability to write the replacement coverage such as an “SR-22.”
What can you expect to happen after a DUI conviction?
Your current carrier will most likely not renew your auto policy and will send you a letter to that effect.
Is it possible your car insurance company may cancel you?
“Cancel” infers your policy will be terminated immediately or upon receipt of the letter. Typically, the notice will be “An intent not to renew,” so they won’t be renewing your policy at your next scheduled renewal date.
Under what circumstances can you lose your license after a DUI?
The court system (local or state) will dictate what transpires after a serious offense, meaning the charge (DUI or similar charge). The level of “points” also plays a part. For example, the court might assign a charge that is a 6-point offense, or even 12 points, depending on the judge, attorney and jurisdiction.
Are your car insurance premiums guaranteed to increase following a DUI?
While the outcome from a DUI is almost always going to be a loss of driving privileges and insurance coverage, and a significant rate increase, it does not mean the increase is “guaranteed,” as there are too many rating factors that affect auto insurance pricing. One well-known carrier that got its start in the auto insurance business, doesn’t adjust their rates much, if at all, if the DUI is a “clean” one, meaning, no accident accompanied the DUI.
How much do insurance premiums typically increase after a DUI?
Depends on each carrier but typically in the range of 25% to 100% or more.
How do you recommend shopping for car insurance after you get a DUI?
An online search is a good place to start. Rates are readily available online but keep in mind, the information is only as good as what you’re entering to get a quote. So, if you don’t provide full, correct information, the quote could be skewed.
An independent insurance agent works with many carriers and can help guide you in this process. They will understand the information that needs to be provided and offer you the best options.
How long does a DUI stay on your record?
Typically, three to five years, dependent upon the state, carriers and pricing model.
What’s the difference between a DUI, OUI, DWI and OVI?
They generally mean the same thing with some technicalities (alcohol vs. drugs) but in relation to insurance, they all mean the same thing.
How long after a DUI do your insurance premiums take to decrease?
This could be annually or over a three-year cycle or up to the five years. Again, very specific to the carriers.
Any other thoughts on this topic?
Rely on rideshare and don’t get yourself in this position in the first place.
Buy a breathalyzer (seriously).
Know your jurisdiction's legal limit but keep in mind, most will charge you even if you’re nowhere close to the true legal limit because even .02% means you have alcohol in your system even though your state says .08% is the “allowable limit.” And a personal breathalyzer isn’t a way to get around the limits but if you find out you’re .02% or greater, maybe you won’t get behind the wheel.
Questions about auto insurance coverage following a DUI? Contact our independent insurance agents in Urbana and Springfield, Ohio here.