Have you been charged with a DUI and need to know how much your insurance rate will increase? The average DUI offender can expect an increase of a few hundred dollars a year or possibly policy termination, depending on your provider. With the help of a tenured Texas DWI lawyer, your driving record could avoid such a harsh offense, alleviating the risk of a higher rate.
Let’s explore how a Texas DUI charge impacts your auto insurance, including the length of time it takes for the case to fall off of your records and potential ways to lower your rate. Our board-certified criminal defense lawyers can make a difference in your case if you require assistance.
Can a Lawyer Prevent My Insurance Rates From Increasing After a DUI in Texas?
If you’ve been charged with operating a motor vehicle while under the influence, a Dallas criminal defense lawyer may be able to assist you with minimizing your conviction so that your insurance rates don’t increase drastically. A Dallas DUI lawyer can help you avoid higher insurance premiums by:
- Negotiating a plea bargain such as reckless driving can have less severe consequences on your driving record than a DUI.
- Challenging evidence and finding inaccuracies to weaken the prosecution’s claim could lead to a positive outcome in your case.
- Explaining your rights and obligations that in the long run helps you avoid mistakes that lead to potentially worse consequences.
How a DUI Impacts Insurance Rates
Aside from the impact on your personal and professional reputation, getting a DUI in Texas can affect your insurance premiums and coverage by almost 49 percent in the following ways:
DUI Offenders Face Increased Insurance Premiums
One of the most immediate effects of a DUI is an increase in insurance premiums. Insurance companies consider DUI convictions as high-risk behavior, which leads to higher rates. The exact amount of your insurance rate increase after a DUI in Texas will vary depending on factors such as your location, driving history, and the insurance company’s policies.
SR-22 Requirement After a DUI Charge
In many cases, after a DUI conviction, you may be required to obtain an SR-22 certificate from your insurance provider. An SR-22 is a form that proves you have the minimum liability insurance required by your state. This requirement is often associated with higher insurance premiums.
Policy Cancellation or Non-Renewal for DUI Offenders
Some insurance companies may choose to cancel your policy or not renew it after a DUI conviction. If this happens, you will need to find a new insurance provider that specializes in high-risk drivers, which can be more expensive.
Will Getting a DUI Limit My Coverage Options?
After a DUI, you may find that your coverage options are limited. Some insurance companies may only offer minimum liability coverage, excluding comprehensive and collision coverage. This means you may have to pay out of pocket for damages to your own vehicle in an accident.
Will Attending Alcohol Education or Treatment Programs Lower My Car Insurance After Getting a DUI?
If you are required to complete alcohol education or treatment programs as part of your DUI conviction, failure to comply with these requirements can further impact your insurance rates and coverage options. There is no proof that attending such programs will reduce your insurance premium rates after a DUI.
Can Taking a Defensive Driving Course Lower My Insurance Premium After Getting a DUI?
Taking a defensive driving course after getting a DUI conviction can potentially have a positive impact on your insurance premiums. However, the availability and extent of any premium reduction will depend on several factors, such as:
- Your insurance policy’s terms and conditions
- State regulations
- Eligibility requirements
- Your insurance company’s timeframe for premium reduction
How Much Will Insurance Rates Be for a DUI Offender Under 21?
The specific increase in insurance rates for a DUI offender under 21 in Texas can vary depending on several factors, including:
- Classification of a high-risk driver
- Age and driving experience
- State laws and penalties
- SR-22 Requirement
To get accurate and personalized information about insurance rates for a DUI offender under 21 in Texas, it’s recommended to speak with a Dallas underage DUI lawyer. Our firm can get you the most accurate quotes and information based on the details of your case.
Need a Qualified DUI Attorney to Explain or Reduce Increasing Insurance Rates After a Texas DUI Charge?
A DUI conviction can stay on your driving record for several years, typically ranging from three to seven years. During this time, you may continue to face higher insurance premiums, even after completing any required programs or probation. Instead of facing higher rates unknowingly, contact our Dallas DUI lawyers at the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg today.
In a free consultation, our Dallas DWI reduction lawyers guide you through the legal process and help you understand the potential impact on your insurance rates. We can also provide advice on how to minimize the consequences and protect your rights.
