Receiving a DUI conviction in California brings a lengthy list of penalties and requirements, from fines and license suspension to completion of remedial driving courses. You may also be wondering what happens if you don’t tell your insurance company you got a DUI.
California state law contains no specific provision that compels drivers to proactively disclose a DUI conviction to their insurance provider; however, they will eventually find out when it comes time to submit certain forms or renew their policy.
You will also face the same scrutiny if you seek coverage from a new auto insurance provider. A Los Angeles DUI lawyer can help you face your charges, working toward a favorable outcome, such as a reduced sentence, maintaining your driver’s license, or even getting your charges dismissed.
California DUI Laws and How They Affect Your Auto Insurance
California vehicle code §23152 states nothing about a driver’s responsibility to inform their insurer about a DUI conviction. Additionally, insurers cannot cancel or change your policy mid-term solely based on the failure to disclose this information.
Yet, the reality is that your insurer will inevitably discover the DUI offense, regardless of whether you choose to notify them upfront or remain silent. This is due to other California laws and requirements.
The SR-22 Requirement
After a DUI, the DMV may require you to file proof of future financial responsibility, typically through an SR-22 certificate from your insurer verifying minimum liability coverage. This obligatory form informs your insurer of the DUI.
Typically, an SR-22 comes into play when you want to reinstate your license following a suspension or revocation from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It serves as proof that you have maintained the court-ordered minimum liability coverage. Drivers must also obtain an SR-22 in order to continue driving with an ignition interlock device (IID), which may be a requirement for reinstating a driver’s license. There are some other circumstances in which the DMV mandates this certificate.
Keep in mind that the SR-22 is not actually an insurance policy but simply verifies that you have liability coverage as required. Your insurer electronically files it directly with the California DMV for monitoring purposes. A DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can determine what is necessary for your particular situation and explain the ins and outs of SR-22 filings.
Background Checks at Renewal
Additionally, when processing renewals or new policy applications, insurance companies conduct driver’s license record checks that will uncover any prior DUI convictions within the past several years.
While you are not legally required to report a DUI to your insurer, being upfront about it can be a wise choice to remain in your insurer’s good graces.
What Happens When Your Insurance Company Discovers Your DUI?
Ultimately, your insurer will penalize you upon learning of the DUI. While they cannot cancel your current policy term prematurely, you will likely face:
- Significantly increased premiums upon renewal
- Potential non-renewal after your current term expires
- Difficulties obtaining affordable coverage from other insurers
Consulting a Los Angeles DUI lawyer provides invaluable guidance on properly navigating the auto insurance implications following a DUI incident. With legal counsel, you can make the best decisions to mitigate long-term insurance ramifications.
A Lawyer Can Help You Face DUI Charges
Ultimately, the consequences of a DUI transcend simply the criminal penalties; they can jeopardize your driving privileges, finances, employment, relationships, and future opportunities. Having a dedicated DUI lawyer build your defense can help take a weight off your shoulders.
A DUI attorney can help protect your rights, mitigate potential penalties, and increase your chances for the most favorable possible outcome. They understand California’s complex DUI laws and can identify and leverage different defense strategies. They know the procedures, the prosecution’s tendencies, and the nuances of DMV proceedings versus criminal court proceedings.
From scrutinizing arrest details and test results for inconsistencies to suppressing inadmissible evidence and testimony, a DUI lawyer can challenge and counter the prosecution’s arguments. An attorney can work to achieve plea bargains and reduced charges by highlighting mitigating factors and spotlighting reasonable doubt. When trials prove unavoidable, they can defend you before a judge or jury.
Call an Attorney in Los Angeles to Learn More About How a DUI Can Affect Your Insurance
A DUI attorney can explain more about what happens if you don’t tell your insurance company you got a DUI. If you have not yet received a conviction, they can take on your case and work toward a favorable outcome. This way, you may be able to avoid a DUI conviction altogether, along with the risks of increased automobile insurance rates or the inability to gain new coverage.
Even if you have a conviction, they can help you with various processes, such as reinstating your driver’s license. Contact a Los Angeles DUI lawyer today. The sooner you get to work on your case, the better.
