You’ve already been worrying about potential jail times and fines following your DUI, but is there more to worry about? Is a DUI insurance increase in your future, and what will that cost you? Will your rates skyrocket? Could your coverage be canceled entirely?
At the Law Offices of Robert David Malove, our South Florida DUI defense lawyers understand your concerns. Our legal team helps clients deal with drunk driving charges before a conviction occurs.
Understanding SR-22 Florida Requirements
After a DUI conviction in Florida, you may need to file an SR-22 form to maintain your driving privileges. SR-22 is not insurance. Instead, it is a certification that proves you carry the minimum required auto insurance coverage. Your insurance company files the SR-22 form with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles on your behalf.
In most cases, you'll need to maintain continuous SR-22 coverage for three years. If your coverage lapses during this period, your insurance company must notify the state, which can result in an immediate license suspension.
The SR-22 requirement may apply even if you don't own a vehicle. In this case, you'll need a non-owner SR-22 policy to drive any car legally.
Many major insurance carriers offer SR-22 filing services, but some may decline to cover drivers with DUI convictions.
Insurance Rate Increases After a Florida DUI
A DUI conviction typically leads to substantial insurance premium increases. Florida drivers often see their rates double or triple after a DUI, with increases lasting several years or longer.
Several factors influence how much your rates might increase:
- Your previous driving record
- Your age and overall insurance history
- The specifics of your DUI case
- Whether anyone was injured
- Your choice of insurance carrier
Some drivers find their current insurance company cancels their policy after a DUI conviction. When this happens, you'll need to shop for new coverage from companies specializing in high-risk auto insurance.
How to Manage a DUI Insurance Increase
While rate increases are inevitable after a DUI conviction, there are ways to minimize the financial impact. Working with our South Florida DUI defense lawyers early in your case may help protect your driving privileges and insurance costs.
First, our experienced legal team will work hard to help you avoid a drunk driving conviction. We will carefully analyze all of the evidence in your case and raise all reasonable defenses.
If you accept a plea bargain or are convicted of drunk driving, you may consider:
- Taking a state-approved defensive driving course. While this won't eliminate the SR-22 requirement, it may help reduce your insurance premiums.
- Maintaining a clean driving record after your DUI. Additional violations during your SR-22 period can lead to even higher rates or policy cancellation.
- Bundling your auto insurance with other policies like homeowners’ or renters’ insurance. Many carriers offer multi-policy discounts even to high-risk drivers.
- Comparing quotes from multiple insurance providers. Rates can vary significantly between companies, even for drivers with DUI convictions.
Long-Term Insurance Implications
The impact of a DUI conviction on your insurance rates gradually diminishes over time. Most insurance companies place less emphasis on violations that are more than three to five years old.
However, the conviction remains on your driving record for 75 years in Florida. Future insurance companies will see this during background checks, which may influence your rates.
Taking steps to demonstrate responsible behavior can help improve your insurance situation faster. This includes completing all court-ordered requirements, maintaining continuous insurance coverage, and avoiding additional traffic violations.
Get Help From Our South Florida DUI Defense Team if You’re Concerned about a DUI Insurance Increase
Don't let insurance concerns after a DUI arrest overwhelm you. The Law Offices of Robert David Malove helps clients throughout South Florida understand and manage the insurance implications of DUI charges. Our experienced attorneys will work to protect your rights and help you make informed decisions about your case.