Phoenix DUI Law Blog
There’s no question that a DUI conviction will affect your life in more ways than you can possibly imagine. Even after you are permitted to drive again, getting insurance may prove a very difficult task. Especially in a state with DUI laws as tough as those in Arizona, DUI and auto insurance problems practically go hand and hand.
Among DUI attorneys, James E. Novak is among the most experienced and dedicated. He can help to ensure that your rights are protected in the event that you have been charged with a DUI and fight to minimize its impact on your life. If there is a possibility of getting your charges dropped or reduced, you can rest assured that Mr. Novak will work tirelessly to make it happen. Ultimately, having a lawyer who can provide the strongest possible DUI defense is the surest way to avoid the headaches that accompany a DUI conviction, including dramatically increased auto insurance rates.
If you have already been convicted of a DUI and are simply searching for information about getting auto insurance after a DUI, we invite you to read on.
How Will a DUI Affect Your Insurance Rates?
If you have a DUI on your record, it will automatically add four points to your Arizona insurance rates for three years after your DUI. You will be viewed by insurance companies as a high-risk driver, which means that you will cost more to insure than low-risk drivers. In essence, insurance companies will see you as someone who is more likely to file a claim than someone who has never had a DUI conviction.
If your insurance company does not cancel your policy immediately upon your conviction, there is a good chance that you will be dropped at renewal time. If you are not dropped, expect to pay substantially higher insurance rates.
Your rates will also be affected by the SR-22 that Arizona requires you to file prior to the reinstatement of your license. The SR-22 is a notification that your insurance company must provide to the Arizona Department of Insurance each month confirming that you have insurance. This service will add to your insurance rates.
What If I Cannot Find a Company That Will Insure Me?
You will find an insurance company willing to provide you with coverage. While you can expect to pay hundreds more in insurance per year, at least for a few years after your DUI conviction, there are certainly companies out there who will take a chance on you. Many factors will figure into your ultimate rate, including whether this is your first DUI offense and how clean your record was leading up to the DUI. Your age and marital status may also influence your rates.
Learn More about DUI Defense
When it comes to DUI cases, the best defense is a great defense. James E. Novak can help make the most out of a bad situation by providing you with a great DUI defense. Contact our law office today to find out how we can help you in your time of need.