DUI Auto Insurance

DUI Auto Insurance-High Risk Drivers Do Pay More

An alcohol related death, as a result of a car accident, occurs approximately every 45 minutes in the United States, which is a very disheartening statistic and one that every citizen needs to look long and hard at. Many states now take a very hard line when it comes to drivers who have been convicted of driving under the influence. Jail time and hefty fines may be involved, but the most common punishment is a rise in insurance rates. If you have been convicted of driving while under the influence, chances are you will be in need of DUI Auto Insurance.

You will quickly find that the rates for this type of policy can be very expensive yet there are ways to reduce your costs. Having been convicted of driving while under the influence, most insurance carriers will consider you a high risk driver. Your current policy may be cancelled or non renewed and even if your company continues to insure you, most likely you will be required to obtain what many refer to as SR22 insurance. Most people believe this is an actual insurance policy, when in reality it is nothing more than a form, which shows that you carry the mandatory liability insurance for your state while removing your license suspension.

By offering an SR22 on your behalf, the insurance company is also agreeing to notify the state agency which regulates driver’s licenses if your policy is cancelled or not renewed. This SR22 form will most likely be required for a minimum of three years. As a result of these requirements, companies which offer DUI auto insurance tend to charge you more, but shopping around online can save you money as rates do vary greatly from carrier to carrier. You will also want to ask about any available discounts you may qualify for in an effort to further reduce your rate which may include a multiple policy discount or a low mileage discount.

If your car has safety features such as air bags or anti-theft devices, another discount may be available. Even if you do qualify for discounts on your DUI auto insurance, don’t expect your rate to be anything close to what it was before the conviction. Companies will not lose money on a high risk driver because they have to protect themselves in the event you have a repeat offense. As you were the one who drove while under the influence, this is a consequence you will have to live with.