It is normal for a person to suspect serious penalties such as fines, license suspension, probation, or even jail time for driving while under the influence charges (DUI). However, most people don’t think about the other serious repercussions such as how it will affect your auto insurance rates. If you have been charged with a DUI it will drastically increase your auto insurance monthly payment. “High-risk” drivers have increased insurance rates because the likelihood of them being involved in an auto accident is significantly higher. Please continue reading to learn more about how a DUI charge can cause your insurance rates to go up. In addition, contact a skilled Camden County DUI Attorney who can represent your interests in court. Allow our firm to help defend your rights.
Could a DUI conviction affect my insurance rates in New Jersey?
Essentially, insured drivers who have been convicted of a DUI are considered “high-risk” drivers as they are more likely to be involved in an auto accident. Insurance companies calculate their insurance rates based on a person’s future risk of being involved in an auto accident. A DUI conviction will cause your auto insurance coverage to be more expensive. Auto insurance can increase by over two times what you are paying now. However, the percentage it increases depends on other factors such as your driving history, any lapses in coverage, and any other moving violations. Ultimately, if you have been convicted of a DUI, you can expect your auto insurance to skyrocket.
How long could it affect it?
If you have been charged with a DUI, you should be prepared to pay an increased premium rate for at least 10 years. A DUI stays on your record permanently. Insurance companies look at your record when calculating quotes. It helps them determine your future risk of being involved in an auto accident. Some insurance companies only look up to 5 years back, however, others may look even further to see past convictions that could put you in the “high-risk” driver category. Furthermore, in some cases, an insurance company may terminate your plan or refuse to renew your policy. Insurance companies are private which means they have the right to cancel or refuse to renew a policy on the grounds of a DUI conviction. However, in most cases, insurance companies will choose to significantly increase your rates instead of canceling your coverage. Ultimately, a DUI could affect your auto insurance rates for several years.
If you have been charged with a DUI it is imperative to retain the legal services of a qualified Camden County DUI attorney who can help you fight to get your charges dismissed or dropped. A DUI conviction can have detrimental effects on your auto insurance rates. Our firm is committed to helping our clients in any way we can to achieve favorable results.
