A DWI Can Impact Your Insurance Rates

 Posted on August 21, 2023 in DWI

Getting charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) can have far-reaching consequences on various aspects of your life, including your insurance rates. DWI offenses are serious offenses that indicate high-risk behavior, and insurance companies take these violations very seriously. If you are convicted of a DWI, you can expect significant changes in your auto insurance premiums.

How Does a DWI Affect Insurance Rates?

One of the immediate and most noticeable effects of a DWI conviction is the surge in your auto insurance premiums. Insurance providers view DWI offenders as high-risk drivers, and they adjust the rates accordingly. Expect a substantial increase in your premiums, sometimes even doubling or tripling your previous rates.

In the state of Texas, a DWI conviction may lead to an SR-22 requirement which can further elevate your insurance costs. An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility that you must file with your insurance company. This document verifies that you carry the minimum liability insurance required.

Some insurance companies may choose to cancel your policy altogether after a DWI conviction. If you are deemed too high-risk, you may need to find a new insurance provider willing to cover you, and they will likely charge exorbitant rates.

Additional impacts include:

• Loss of “Good Driver” discounts

• Limited coverage options

• Impacts other drivers on your policy

It is essential to recognize that the impact of a DWI conviction on your insurance rates is not temporary. Insurance providers typically consider driving records for several years, meaning you may be facing higher premiums for an extended period, sometimes many years.

How Can I Mitigate the Impact of a DWI?

While the consequences of a DWI on insurance rates can be severe, there are steps you can take to lessen the blow.

Focus on being a responsible and safer driver moving forward. A clean driving record without further violations can gradually improve your standing with insurance companies. After a DWI conviction, it's even more crucial to shop around for insurance quotes. Different companies have varying risk assessments, and you may find a provider willing to offer more competitive rates.

Completing a defensive driving course can demonstrate your commitment to improving your driving skills and may earn you discounts from some insurance companies. If you no longer own a car but still need coverage, consider a non-owner policy. These policies provide liability coverage for drivers who frequently borrow or rent vehicles.

Get a Weatherford, TX Criminal Defense Lawyer on the Phone

A DWI conviction can have a lasting impact on your auto insurance rates. The increase in premiums, potential policy cancellations, and limited coverage options are significant challenges to overcome. If you have been charged with a DWI, you will want to find a Parker County, TX, Criminal Defense attorney as soon as possible. Contact Soraya Joslin, P.C. at 817-599-7005 for a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/faq/section-9-sr-22-proof-financial-responsibility

https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/driver-license/alcohol-related-offenses