When you’ve been charged with driving under the influence, you can expect those charges to be disruptive to your life. While most people know that they’ll face hefty fines and jail time if convicted, you may not realize that your conviction can impact your car insurance for years after the fact. And it’s not just about increased rates. Here’s what your South Carolina DUI defense attorney wants you to understand about DUI convictions and your car insurance.
DUIs Impact Insurance Rates for Up to Seven Years
Insurance providers love to work with low-risk drivers. This is because they’re less likely to be involved in accidents or cause damage on the road, resulting in costly insurance claims and payouts. If you’re convicted of driving under the influence, insurance providers will view you as a high-risk driver.
When you’re a high-risk driver, insurance companies typically charge higher rates for coverage. This is because you’re more likely to need to file a claim, meaning you could cost them more money than other drivers. They hedge against that risk by charging higher premium rates. And that rate increase can last for up to seven years or until your insurance provider is satisfied that you’re not going to drive under the influence again.
How Much Will Your Rates Change?
Ultimately, every insurance provider is different and the amount your rates will increase will depend on your provider’s policies, your driving history, and the severity of the charges against you. If you’re facing a misdemeanor DUI and tested just over the legal limit, your rates may rise but the change may be less severe than you anticipate. But if you’re facing a felony conviction or have multiple DUIs on your record, your rates could increase dramatically.
If your rates increase, you can shop around for coverage with different providers. However, the quotes they give will reflect your DUI conviction and will likely be higher than advertised.
You’ll Need SR-22 Insurance
Your car insurance rates aren’t the only increased expense you’ll face after a conviction. In South Carolina, those convicted of a DUI may have to purchase SR-22 insurance and maintain that coverage for at least three years. This insurance isn’t technically insurance. It’s proof that you’re carrying the minimum liability coverage required in South Carolina. It’s designed to show the state that you’re fully insured and can adequately cover any liability claims if you get into an accident.
The more severe the charges against you are, the longer you may need to maintain SR-22 insurance. Unfortunately, this coverage isn’t cheap. You can expect to pay between $100 and $200 per month for coverage on top of your regular insurance premiums.
Working With a South Carolina DUI Defense Attorney May Help
While your attorney may not be able to convince your insurance provider to lower your rates, they can represent you in court. By working with someone who understands the ins and outs of DUIs and the charges you’re facing, you’ll be better able to mount a defense. The stronger your defense is, the better your chances are of reducing the charges you’re facing and the penalties you may face.
In some instances, reduced charges may help reduce the impact your DUI has on your insurance rates. This could save you hundreds over the next few years. While there’s no way to guarantee that your attorney will be successful, the stronger your defense is, the better off you’ll be.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you’re facing charges for DUI, the best thing you can do to keep your insurance rates low is to work with an experienced DUI defense attorney. At Truslow and Truslow, our team will work to reduce the severity of the charges against you whenever possible. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.