How DUI’s affect insurance

Getting a DUI puts you in a group known as high-risk drivers. In the eyes of the insurance company, you are now considered too much of a liability to be on the road and as a result, several things can happen to you, including:

Increased DUI car insurances rates: A DUI will almost always guarantee an increase in your car insurance premiums, sometimes significantly. The rate it increases can depend on a number of factors, including age, the number of DUI’s and the company you are insured with.

Loss of car insurance: In some cases, a car insurance company will cancel your insurance policy once they find out about an impaired driving charge. You should be upfront and honest when you are handed a DUI conviction, as not telling your insurance company about DUI could guarantee a cancellation of your policy.

Difficulty getting insured: If convicted, you may find it harder to be insured and get an affordable rate. You may want to look at non-conventional options, including non-car owner insurance or looking to your state’s high-risk insurance program.

You may also be required to fill in either an SR-22, FR-44, or FR-19 which will be essential for you to prove that you are insured before you can drive again.

How to find cheap options

Finding “cheap” insurance options after a DUI is a bit of an oxymoron. Because they are rarely cheap, unfortunately, rates can increase by almost % in most cases. While there can be challenges, the bright side is affordable options available that will insure you. Some companies even specialize in offering high-risk insurance. Here is how you find them.

1. Shop around

2. Maintain status as a safe driver

3. Get multiple quotes

4. Use comparison tools

Best high-risk auto insurance options Insurance for individuals deemed as high-risk drivers has the option to go with big insurance companies or smaller companies that specialize in providing insurance to high-risk drivers.

1. Progressive Coverage after a DUI: Progressive is considered a company that offers insurance to its policyholders even after a DUI. It is important to note that Progressive will still cover you if you were in an accident while impaired, regardless of fault. After one DUI, Progressive will raise rates by a country average of 13%. Requirements: For new or existing policyholders, you must immediately file an SR-22 before getting insured with Progressive.

2. State Farm: In a study by US News, State Farm DUI insurance had some of the lowest rates for drivers with DUI’s. Compared to other major car insurance companies, they appear to be much more DUI friendly. According to Wallethub, after a DUI, a driver can expect an 11% increase in premiums. Requirements: If your license has been suspended, you may need an SR-22 form. It may be best to speak to an insurance agent near you for more information.

3. Allstate (Coverage after a DUI): Allstate insurance rates increase 24% above the national average after a DUI conviction. Rates tend to decrease once the conviction stops showing on your driving record. Requirements: Allstate may require an SR-22 filed depending on the state.

4. The General (Coverage after a DUI): The General tends to cover high-risk drivers, including those with multiple DUI’s. It should be noted that while they are more accepting, their rates are not necessarily competitive. Requirements: The General is a good option if you are having trouble getting insured with any major companies. They also help you filing your SR-22.

What to do after? 



The average time a DUI stays on your driving record for around 3 to 5 years. In states like California, this extends to 10 years. During this period, it is important to take steps to transition from high-risk to a safe driver and potentially decrease your current rates:

Take a defensive craving course: This sometimes may be required after a conviction, but it doesn’t hurt to take a defensive driving course if your insurance company offers discounts to policyholders.

Maintain a clean driving record: Maintaining a clean driving record after your DUI is important not only for everyone’s safety but it can prevent you from getting more traffic violations and becoming even more of a risk.

Trade your car for better safety features: Not only does it set you up for potential discounts, but you are also in a much better position to be safer on the road and keep your record clean during your transition phase.

Keep your credit intact: Your credit can be a factor that insurance companies look at when determining your risk. You don’t want one more thing added to your risk level and making sure that you have a good credit score can help you avoid any further rate increases.

Final Thoughts If you have been charged with a DUI, getting affordable insurance starts with managing the situation with care and time. With stellar driving behaviour, you can move from the high-risk category to normal driving in a few years!