Obtaining Car Insurance After a DUI, DWI

Obtaining car insurance after you've been charged with a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) can prove to be a challenging task. Most major car insurance companies will not give you coverage and those that will cover you charge an arm and leg for premiums. If you're a first-time DUI offender, this doesn't seem very fair, right? If you're currently insured (In most states you have to be insured), it's possible that your insurance premium may not go up at all. Many insurance companies check your record every few years. However, if or when they do find out, they could raise your rates or even cancel your insurance.

What Companies Look At Before Offering Insurance

There are several factors that come into play in a company's decision to offer you an auto policy. Many insurance companies will look at your previous driving history, of course, and some will even check your credit to see how financially stable you are. They also look at your claims history reporting. All of these variables combine to create an "insurance score", much the same way credit bureaus come up with a credit score.

What Is an SR-22?

An SR-22 is a Department of Motor Vehicles form that provides proof of insurance. This SR-22 is required who have been arrested or convicted for a DUI and want to get a restricted license. It also lets the DMV know that the car insurance company has issued at least a minimum liability coverage for the person filing the form.

Shop Around For Insurance

Make sure to get several quotes from companies before making a decision on purchasing car insurance. Perhaps your DUI lawyer can recommend a few companies that can help you with your SR-22 filing and offer a decent rate.

Maria Palma is a freelance writer dedicated to helping people find San Diego DUI information. For more information, visit: http://www.sandiego-dui-lawyer.com

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