Driving under the influence is a serious offense in California that has far-reaching consequences. An increase in car insurance rates is one of the most significant repercussions of a DUI conviction.
However, there are some steps you may be able to take to minimize how much of an impact a drunk driving conviction has on your finances.
How much of a rate increase to expect
Expect a significant spike in car insurance rates after a conviction for drunk driving. Insurance companies view individuals with DUI convictions as high-risk drivers, which means they are more likely to have accidents and file claims. To mitigate this higher risk, insurers increase premiums. The typical California motorist with a first-time DUI sees his or her annual insurance premiums increase by 131%.
A DUI conviction may also trigger the requirement for SR-22 insurance. SR-22 is not a type of insurance but rather a certificate that proves you have the minimum required liability coverage. Obtaining SR-22 insurance can be expensive, and the associated fees can further drive up your overall insurance costs.
How to find the lowest available rate
Some insurance companies may choose to cancel your policy or not renew it after a DUI conviction. If this happens, you may have to seek coverage from a high-risk insurance provider, which typically charges even higher premiums. Finding affordable insurance may become a challenging task, but it is not impossible. Shopping around for different insurance providers and comparing quotes can help you find the best possible rates given your circumstances.
California drunk driving offenses typically remain on your record for 10 years. This means you can expect to pay increased insurance premiums for quite some time after a DUI conviction.
