How a DUI Will Affect Your Car Insurance Rates

 Posted on December 28, 2017 in DUI/OWI

One of the financial consequences of a DUI conviction is higher car insurance rates. The amount your car insurance rate will increase will depend on several factors such as your car insurance company, age, the time that has passed since your DUI, and the number of DUIs you have had. Let’s take a closer look at how a DUI will affect your car insurance.

What is an SR22?

Contrary to popular belief, SR22 is not a type of car insurance. It is actually a certificate that your car insurance company files with the Wisconsin DMV to ensure that you have a car insurance policy. If you would like to reinstate your driver’s license after being convicted of a DUI, reckless driving, driving without insurance, or any other similar traffic violation, you will need an SR22 for five years. In the event you fail to pay your insurance premiums during that time frame, your SR22 will be canceled and an SR26 will be filed. The filing of the SR26 will suspend your license until a new SR22 is filed.

How to Obtain an SR22?

If you are in need of an SR22, you can obtain one through your car insurance company. Begin by contacting them and requesting the filing of an SR22. Then, pay the processing fee and determine the coverage you will need. Once the insurance company receives your SR22 request, they will send it directly to the Wisconsin BMW.

If your SR22 request is approved, you’ll receive a letter in the mail along with the SR22 form. In the state of Wisconsin, your SR22 must be maintained for at least 36 months. The failure to renew it at least 15 days prior to expiration may lead to a driver’s license suspension until your insurance has been reinstated.

How Much Will Insurance Premiums Rise After a Wisconsin DUI?

Due to the fact that every car insurance company handles drivers with DUIs differently, it’s challenging to provide a hard number of how much your car insurance premiums may rise after a DUI. Our firm has found, however, that many of our clients with DUIs pay approximately $5,000 more per year in car insurance premiums.  

How to Avoid Increased Car Insurance Rates

If you have a DUI on your record but would like to avoid paying more for car insurance, you should consider walking or using public transportation. Consulting a highly experienced DUI attorney who may fight your DUI charge if you have not yet been convicted is also an option.

Contact Our Waukesha County DUI Attorneys Today

For more information on how a DUI can affect your car insurance rates, you should reach out to our experienced Delafield DUI attorneys at 262-303-4916. We can answer any questions you may have about an SR22 and inform you of whether you can avoid increased car insurance rates.

Sources: 

https://www.valuepenguin.com/how-does-dui-affect-your-auto-insurance-rates

https://www.insure.com/car-insurance/drunk-driving-penalties.html