A conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) can have numerous consequences, including increased insurance rates. How do insurance companies find out about DUIs to raise your insurance?
Insurance companies often find out when they run a background check for a new policy or to renew an existing policy. You can take steps to avoid a conviction and increased insurance rates with a Los Angeles DUI lawyer.
Find out more about DUI charges and insurance rates by calling or completing our online contact form.
How Can Insurance Companies Learn About DUI Charges?
California does not require drivers to tell their insurance companies about a DUI arrest or conviction. So, many people wonder how insurance companies learn about these accidents and adjust their rates.
Typically, insurance companies find out about DUI arrests when they:
Run a Background Check
Insurance companies typically run background checks when you renew your car insurance policy or apply for a new policy. DUI convictions will show up on your record, giving the company this information.
Receive Information About an Accident
Generally, you have to report any accident to your insurance company. If you end up in a collision and face DUI charges for the same event, the insurance company may find out about the DUI alongside your accident.
Someone else involved in the accident may also report the collision. Reporting the accident to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) means your insurance company will find out about it.
You Request SR-22 Insurance
If you lost your license due to a DUI conviction, the DMV may require you to provide SR-22 insurance before you can legally drive again. You must request this form from your insurance company, which often reveals a DUI accusation or conviction.
What Happens if an Insurance Company Learns About a DUI?
Generally, insurance companies raise their rates for drivers convicted of DUI and may discontinue service in some cases.
However, typically, they cannot make changes during your current coverage period. Therefore, you may have several months to consider new insurance options following a DUI conviction.
Can You Keep Your Insurance Rates from Changing?
Drivers cannot control the decisions of insurance companies. However, you may avoid a rate increase by working with a DUI lawyer to avoid a conviction. Some drivers also take safety courses or join an alcohol-treatment program to demonstrate their commitment to safe driving.
How Long Does a DUI Impact Your Insurance?
The specific amount of time a DUI can impact your insurance rates will vary based on the company. However, California will keep a DUI conviction on your record for 10 years. Your insurance company may keep your rates high for this entire period.
Can You Expunge Your DUI to Lower Insurance Rates?
Some drivers focus on getting a DUI expunged in California. While this legal step may benefit you in some circumstances, it will not remove the DUI from your driving record and will likely not impact your insurance rates.
Generally, legal professionals focus on addressing DUI accusations before a conviction instead of trying to handle an expungement.
What Else Happens After a DUI in California?
DUI convictions can have significant impacts on your life in California. You may face:
- Fines
- Incarceration
- The loss of your driver’s license
- Requirements to attend alcohol treatment
Additionally, IIDs are now required for all DUI offenders in California. IIDs (ignition interlock devices) will test your blood alcohol content (BAC) each time you try to start your car and prevent you from driving if they detect alcohol.
Some drivers convicted of a DUI will have to keep IIDs on their vehicles for years, making travel more difficult and resulting in regular maintenance and operation costs. Fortunately, an attorney can help you handle DUI accusations in California.
How Can You Handle a DUI Charge in California?
You can reach out to a law firm for help quickly after a DUI arrest. Getting fast help may allow a lawyer to get your charges reduced or dismissed, helping you avoid jail time, fines, and higher insurance premiums.
Waiting until after a conviction to seek help means you may face all of the penalties associated with a DUI arrest, so we recommend you get assistance quickly. You may have legal options even if you failed a BAC test or a field sobriety test.
Learn How Insurance Companies Find Out About DUIs
How do insurance companies find out about DUIs? They may find out when they check a driver’s record when setting up a new policy or renewing a current policy. They may also find out if you – or someone else – report an accident involving a DUI.
You can learn more about DUIs and insurance rates by going over the resources we offer. Call or complete our online contact form to learn more.