Will DUI Affect My Car Insurance Rate?

Will DUI affect my car insurance rate?

If you've been convicted of a DUI (driving under the influence), you're in for some financial sticker shock. In addition to your attorney's fees, fines and other expenses, you're also going to pay a higher car insurance rate for the next several years. In fact, over a three to five year period, you're likely to pay about $7000 more in insurance.

So, how can I minimize the effect of my DUI?

First of all, fight. It is well worth your time and money to invest in an attorney and fight the charge, if at all possible. Just as important as protecting your car insurance rate, you're protecting your criminal and driving record by doing your best not to be convicted. Your DUI conviction will come off your driving record somewhere between three and ten years, depending upon the state you live in, but it will remain on your criminal record forever.

Secondly, if you are convicted, follow the court's requirements to the letter. Do not drive while your license is suspended or revoked. If you've been permitted to drive only to and from work, stay within the restrictions. Do your community service. Attend your safe driving class. The ramifications will be even greater if you prove uncooperative.

Get Ready For a Change in Your Car Insurance Rate

If you've been with your insurance company for a long time, you might get lucky. Some companies rarely check the driving records of their current customers. If they do find out about your DUI, they may cancel your policy altogether or simply increase your car insurance rate. Once your car insurance rate has been increased with your current insurance carrier, it's time to shop around. Compare the premium from your current insurance company to those that specialize in insurance for DUI offenders. They may be able to offer you a better rate. They may also be your only option if your current carrier cancels your policy.

If your current insurance company does not cancel your policy, but increases your rate, sit down with your agent and go over your coverage. You may be able to save some money by dropping or reducing some of your optional coverage until the DUI is off your driving record. For more information on getting the best car insurance rate, visit www.cheapcarinsurancequotetips.com .

Learn Your Lesson

The most important lesson is, of course, not about your car insurance rate. It's about turning over your keys when you've been drinking. Many hard working, upstanding citizens get a DUI simply because they didn't think they'd had too much to drink or they didn't want to admit they'd had too much to drink. If you're one of those people, then hopefully you've learned your lesson. Call a cab or ask for a ride home - even if you don't think you've had one too many.