California DUI: Effect on Car / Auto Insurance

http://www.shouselaw.com/DUI-car-insurance.html 888.327.4652 How does a DUI affect car & auto insurance premiums? A California defense lawyer explains.


Unfortunately, it is likely that your premium will significantly increase. But this isn'tnecessarily the case. A California DUI drunk driving conviction isn't the only consideration when determining whether to raise your premium. Auto insurance carriers will typically consider factors such as age, gender, marital status, driving experience and driving history, place of residence, and professional organization affiliation before deciding to raise your premium or cancel your policy.
This much we can say for sure...once you have a California DUI conviction, you will not be eligible for a "good driver" discount for a period of ten years following your DUI arrest.7
If you didn't benefit from a good driver discount prior to your DUI, this rule really won't affect you. If you did qualify for a good driver discount, this is one of the reasons why your premium would increase...perhaps as much as 20 to 30%.
In addition, if you are required to obtain an SR 22, you will have to pay more for your coverage as a "high risk" driver. This can cost anywhere from $300 - $800 per year for the average three year period that you will be required to maintain SR 22 status.
Despite the fact that you are in need of high risk insurance, rates will still vary greatly between companies. It is a good idea to shop around for the best deal to help minimize your new costs. You may also want to call the California Department of Insurance at 1-800-927-HELP to make sure that you are working with an insurance agent / broker who is in good standing.
It should be noted that after you are once again eligible to receive a "good driver" discount...which is ten years following your driving under the influence arrest...the DMV will automatically remove the DUI from your record and, at least as far as an auto insurance company is concerned, it's as if it never happened.

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Education

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• dui
• drunk driving
• oui
• dwi
• intoxicated