Every day, almost 30 people in the United States die in drunk-driving crashes- that's one person every 50 minutes. In 2019, over 10,000 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes.
At I&E we take safe, attentive driving very seriously. It is imperative to stay alert while behind the wheel of a car to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road. The holiday season consistently has higher averages of accident rates. If you are counting on drinking at small gatherings or celebrations this month, make smart choices and plan accordingly. Instead of drinking under the influence, have a designated driver, call a cab or rideshare or even get a hotel room.
Too often people think they are capable of driving while intoxicated, this is how we end up with tragedies. If the risk of ending a life is not enough to keep you off the roads while intoxicated, read about the impact a DUI will have on your auto insurance.
A drinking and/or drugged driving conviction is a major traffic violation. This will without a doubt impact your premiums and, in some cases, prevent you from getting any car insurance at all.
If your provider decides to continue doing business with you after a DWI conviction, your premiums will absolutely go up. But don’t be surprised if you don’t notice an immediate increase. The rate increase typically happens at the first renewal after the conviction is final.
The amount your rates will increase depends on your prior driving history. If you are moving out of a preferred driver status into this new high-risk driver status, you will see a huge spike. This could involve paying double your current price, or even more.
It is not uncommon for Insurance carriers to cancel your policy for a drinking and driving conviction. Typically, they will let you ride out your existing policy until the renewal date. Often, thirty to forty-five days before your actual renewal date you will receive a notice of nonrenewal.
A DUI will impact your car insurance for at least 3 to 5 years. A typical carrier may make you eligible 3 years after your conviction, however, you will still be paying a surcharge for two additional years. Insurance companies all handle DUI’s differently. The standard is for it to affect your rates for 5 years.
If you were convicted of an offense that put other drivers at risk you’re not only an insurance risk, but a risk to the public. Many states require an SR22 filing which will monitor your car insurance active status. Essentially, the state wants to verify you’re maintaining insurance coverage. Your carrier will automatically notify the state of any changes to your policy.
Driving under the influence is never a good idea. Please don't take any risks on the road this holiday season. We want everyone to make it home to see their families. If you’ve been convicted of a DWI and don’t know what steps to take next, give us a call. One of our expert agents will be happy to explain any confusion and go over your auto insurance options options.