Legal consequences are not the only headache that comes with a DUI conviction
Most people expect that if they are charged with a California DUI, their lives will change in certain ways. It may include losing their license, having go to DUI school, being on probation, paying fines, or even blowing into a special device (ignition interlock device) to start their car. Yet one aspect that many people don’t consider is the long-term impact of a DUI conviction. Even after you have completed your DUI probation and are driving without restriction, a DUI can affect numerous aspects of your life, from your ability to get student loans and scholarships — to how much you pay for car insurance.
When consulting with an Orange County DUI lawyer, many people are most concerned with the possibility of jail time for a DUI. This is unsurprising — after all, nobody wants to go to jail. Many of the sanctions associated with DUIs are painful, and they are intended to be, as a deterrent against driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Yet one thing that many people do not consider is what being convicted of a DUI will do to their car insurance. In short: it will cause it to increase, often exponentially.
This should not surprise anyone who has ever been in an accident or had traffic infractions. Your insurance company typically raises your premium if you are deemed to be a high risk driver. If you get a DUI, then you are considered to be a higher risk than a person who has not had a DUI conviction.
Insurance companies typically learn about about your DUI conviction when they check your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) record, which occurs when your policy is set to be renewed, or whenever you are applying for a new car insurance policy. DUI convictions remain on your DMV record for a period of 10 years, and on your criminal record indefinitely. However, in many cases, the DMV will require you to obtain proof of financial responsibility before you can get your California driver’s license back after it is suspended. For most people, that is through a SR-22 certificate. As an Orange County DUI lawyer can explain, the insurance company will issue this certificate to the DMV so that you can get your license back; it then must be issued annually for a set period of time after your conviction, typically 3 to 5 years.
If you need SR-22 insurance, you are considered a “high risk” driver. If you are currently covered by an insurance policy, the insurance company cannot raise your rates during the term. However, once the policy term is up, your rates will likely increase. You could pay as much as $800 to $1,000 per year in car insurance premiums, depending on your driving history and other factors. Your insurance company may also cancel the policy when it is up for renewal, and you will be forced to find other coverage.
At the Chambers Law Firm, we understand the range of consequences that occur when a person is convicted of a DUI. We fight to protect our clients’ rights throughout the process, and will negotiate the best possible deals. Contact us today at 714-760-4088 or dchambers@clfca.com to schedule a free initial consultation and learn more about how we can help.
