Getting Auto Insurance After a DUI

A DUI conviction can impact your life in many ways, including license suspension or jail time. What you may not think about initially is how it will affect your ability to get car insurance after you get your license back.

Understand the Law

Several terms are used to indicate that you were found guilty of drunk driving. They don’t all mean the same thing even though they’re often used interchangeably. For instance, DUI means "driving under the influence" and may include illegal or even prescription drugs that alter your ability to operate a vehicle. If you get in an accident while taking a medication that includes a warning not to operate machinery or drive, you could receive this violation.

A DWI is "driving while intoxicated" and refers specifically to alcohol. An OUI is "operating under the influence." In most cases, you’ll lose your driver’s license for a few months if you’re convicted of one of these violations.

Anyone under the age of 21 cannot have any alcohol in their blood when tested. Those over 21 must have a blood alcohol content level below.08 percent or.04 percent if operating commercial vehicles. Utah has an implied consent law, which means you must consent to testing or have your license automatically revoked regardless of whether you were drunk or not.

Penalties for a DUI

In Utah, the penalty for a first-time offender is a fine of $700, a minimum of 48 hours in jail, and license suspension for 120 days. Second offence requires 240 hours in jail, an $800 fine and two years with no license. For the third offense, expect to spend at least 1500 hours in jail with a $1500 fine and two years license suspension.

The fines do not include court costs, legal fees or other expenses. Long-term cost from a DUI will be even more because of higher insurance rates.

Utah has stiff penalties for DUI convictions and car insurance companies also impose high rate increases. Average rate increase is one of the highest in the entire country at 76 percent or an average of about $900 more a year for coverage.

How to Get Cheaper Car Insurance After a DUI

Some auto insurance providers may not renew your coverage while others will increase the rates dramatically. To ensure the most affordable coverage if you have a conviction on your record is to shop around. While you can’t expect to get the best rates, you can look for cheaper rates for your situation. Compare rates from multiple companies and you may notice several hundreds of dollars difference. This comparison allows you to save the most money possible. Some may also consider a driving safety course to help lower your rates.

As your conviction ages and you don’t become a repeat offender, your rates will gradually get lower. Until then, your best option is to shop around and find the best policy you can afford. A DUI is a costly mistake, but one you can recover from over time.

ASA Insurance provides excellent coverage for car and home insurance in the Salt Lake City area with the lowest rates to the English and Spanish communities. Affordable rates and superior service for all home, auto and business/commercial insurance needs.

Asa Insurance provides excellent coverage for auto insurance in the Salt Lake City area with the lowest rates to the English and Spanish communities. Affordable rates and superior service for all home, auto and business/commercial insurance needs.