A DUI conviction in California is a serious offense, just as DUI convictions in many other states. The legislature has established hefty fines on anyone found guilty of the offense because of the possibility of fatalities. If you are found guilty of DUI, you might face license suspension, steep fines and penalties, DUI school that you have to attend, probation, community service, and possibly jail time if it was a serious violation or a repeat offense.
But many individuals are unaware that a DUI conviction has far-reaching effects in addition to the penalties the court imposes. If you are found guilty of a DUI in the state of California, your insurance prices may skyrocket, if your insurer would even continue to accept you as a client. If you can’t drive because you can’t afford vehicle insurance, it can become entirely out of your price range and affect your ability to work, attend school, or just live your life.
It is crucial that you see a skilled DUI attorney as soon as you are arrested because of these potentially life-altering implications. A lawyer at your side can defend your rights, even if it’s your first offense, and perhaps even lessen the effects of a DUI conviction on your future. Contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 for a free legal consultation.
How DUI charges impact your insurance
Your license will be suspended in California if you are found guilty of an alcohol-related driving crime. You must submit a form SR-22 from your insurance provider to the Department of Motor Vehicles demonstrating your insurance coverage in order to get your license returned (DMV). Both a DUI and “wet reckless” (driving while intoxicated or high) will compel you to show the DMV proof of insurance.
Legally, you are not required to notify your insurance provider of a DUI or wet reckless arrest. However, when you renew your coverage or apply for a policy with a different carrier, your insurance provider will probably find out about the arrest or conviction through normal driving record checks. When you ask for an SR 22 form to show evidence of insurance in order to get your license back after a suspension, you will also be forced to let your insurer know about your conviction.
Results for insurance
If you are found guilty of a DUI, your insurance won’t be terminated while the existing policy is in effect. Due to California law, insurance firms are not allowed to terminate plans mid-term. Up until the time when your policy is up for renewal, you will be able to continue with the same coverage at the same premium cost.
One of two things is likely to occur when the term of your insurance policy expires: either your insurance provider will terminate your coverage, or it will be renewed at a significantly higher price. The amount of any rate increases will depend on a variety of variables, including your driving record and the length of time you have been a customer of the insurance provider. The increase in the premium might reach 30%.
Due to the fact that you won’t be qualified for a good driver discount for 10 years following your arrest or conviction, your rates might go up even more. If you are required to get an SR-22 form and pay an additional fee for each year that you are in this status, you may also be considered a high-risk driver and be subject to these penalties.
You might have trouble getting insurance
You could have problems locating a new insurer that would issue you a policy at a rate you can pay if your insurance company cancels your coverage. After a DUI conviction, the California Automobile Assigned Risk Plan might be able to assist you in locating an insurance. You should anticipate paying rates that are much more than what you did before to your conviction.
An attorney can help you
One of the repercussions of a DUI conviction is the effect it will have on your insurance. An accomplished DUI attorney may assist you in fighting the allegations against you if you have been detained for a DUI. Anyone in Southern California who has been charged with DUI will receive top-notch legal assistance from Chambers Law Firm. If you have been detained for a DUI, get in touch with our office right away at 714-760-4088 or dchambers@clfca.com for a free legal consultation.
