As a driver in California, you know that one wrong move, or even a series of small missteps, can have serious consequences. If you have been arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI), it could lead to a conviction on your record that could haunt you for years. Luckily, there are ways to reduce the damage to your reputation and your future. One of the most important things you can do is get an attorney on your side as soon as possible so that they can help you fight your case and keep your record clean. There are a few factors that will affect your premiums once you’re convicted. Depending on your state and the details of the case, you may be able to reduce your rates significantly or completely avoid paying more for car insurance. Here is what you need to know about how a DWI will affect your rates.
The factors that determine your insurance rates after a DWI will depend on your state and the details of the case. Some states will use your DUI conviction to determine if you are too risky to insure, while others will look at your driving record as a whole. Here are a few common factors that will affect your rates after a DWI:
Your age. The younger you are, the more costly your insurance will be. This is because younger drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in a crash.
Your driving record. If you have a history of accidents or violations, it will make it more difficult to find affordable car insurance. It is important to note that the number of violations will affect your rates, but not necessarily in the way you might think. Some states use a “blue ribbon” system, where a certain percentage of violations are considered serious and will affect your rates more than others.
The type of vehicle you drive. If you drive a sports car, it will cost more to insure than if you drive a sedan. What type of car you drive will also affect how much your rates increase if you are at fault in a crash.
If you are convicted of DUI, it will go on your record and be reflected on your driver’s license. Depending on the severity of the conviction and the circumstances surrounding it, it will also affect your future in other areas. If you are convicted, you will be required to take a class on the dangers of drinking and driving. Depending on your state and the details of the conviction, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your car as well. If you are convicted of a DWI, it is important to understand that you will face penalties and fines in addition to being sentenced to jail or prison time.
There are a few ways to reduce your rates after a DWI. Some of them are simple and will only require a phone call to your insurance company, while others will require you to take specific action. Some of these tips will apply to all states, while others will depend on your state’s laws and your specific circumstances. Here are some things you can do to reduce your rates after a DWI:
Be honest about your past. If your insurance company finds out you have been dishonest about your past, it could lead to cancellation of your policy.
Don’t drive uninsured. If you don’t have car insurance, you will almost certainly be hit with a penalty and a higher premium once you are convicted of a DWI.
Don’t drive uninsured. If you don’t have car insurance, you will almost certainly be hit with a penalty and a higher premium once you are convicted of a DWI.
Be careful about which car insurer you choose. It is important to shop around and find the best rate possible. You can get a free online quote from many different insurance companies, or you can call toll-free to speak with an insurance agent.
Don’t drive to save money. If you have to drive to work or to run errands, it is important to find a car that is safe to operate in your state. Driving an unsafe vehicle is a surefire way to increase your insurance rates.
Don’t drive when impaired. If you are impaired by drugs or alcohol, you are putting yourself and others at risk. It is important to avoid driving if you are impaired and to have a designated driver available if you know you will be drinking.
A DWI can have serious consequences, both personally and financially. It is important to understand the impact that a conviction will have on your insurance rates. Depending on the details of the case, you may be able to reduce your rates significantly or completely avoid paying more for car insurance. It is important to be honest about your past and to drive safely to avoid being convicted of a DWI.