It’s beginning to look a lot like…. National Drunk & Drugged Driving Prevention Month, as well as National Impaired Driving Month. Yes, December covers both during its 31 days.
Insurance Ramifications of a DUI
Clearly, we should never drive drunk, or under the influence of any kind of drugs, including prescription ones. It’s unsafe and can result in absolute destruction. If you happen to end up with a DUI, you’ll need to know how this affects you, as well as your car insurance.
DUI and expenses
When you end up with a DUI charge, normally you’re going to have to pay bail, along with towing and impound charges on your car. Once that’s over, you’ll have to go to court, which normally involves a lawyer specializing in DUIs. On top of the lawyer, there’s court fees, and more often than not, you’ll be required to put a lock on your ignition that only unlocks after blowing into it to prove you aren’t under the influence of alcohol.
All of these expenses are YOURS. There’s no getting around them, and the state isn’t going to help you in any way.
DUI and Car Insurance
Once there’s a DUI on your license, insurance companies will find it when they run a motor vehicle report. Insurance companies run them for not just NEW INSURANCE policies, but also for renewals. Once it’s found, your insurance premiums will increase, and if you aren’t honest about the DUI, many insurance companies will deny you coverage.
If you aren’t dropped, you’re going to be put into a high-risk driver category, which means your insurance premiums will go up. And a DUI normally stays on your license for at least 3 years, but is often longer.
Be prepared to pay higher premiums for an extended period of time.
Always be honest with your insurance agents. Tango agents are here to assist you with your insurance needs, but we can only provide the best service if you tell us everything we need to know before we shop for your car insurance coverage. Give us a call today to answer your car insurance questions at 631.543.0500.
Drive safe out there.