How a DUI Can Affect Insurance in Illinois

Updated on 10/04/2023 / Under

A DUI conviction in Illinois can have serious consequences, including higher auto insurance company rates. The cheapest insurers may drop your policy or increase your premiums due to the increased risk you pose. Prior DUI convictions can also impact your ability to obtain insurance policy coverage imposing coverage limits.

A DUI can stay on your driving record for up to seven years in Illinois, affecting your driving privileges and risk assessment during policy renewals with auto insurance companies.

To lessen the effects, it is advisable to seek help from an experienced Naperville DUI attorney.

The Effects of a DUI on Car Insurance Companies

Driving under the influence convictions and cheap car insurance providers don't mix well. Auto insurance premiums can be affected by many factors when someone is convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Licensed insurance agents have discretion as to the amount drunk driving infraction offenders must pay to stay covered by SR-22 insurance, which often leads to high increases.

Some drivers convicted of alcohol-impaired driving may pay up to $1,000 more on top of their existing premium. Those over 21 can expect an average auto insurance coverage increase of 20-30%, while first-time offenders may see a lesser, but still substantial increase.

How a DUI Can Affect Insurance

Car insurance providers have strict protocols for impaired offenses while driving because they are seen as high-risk drivers. Insurers must compensate for the increased risk through rate increases to remain fiscally responsible and protect their interests.

Insurance Rates May be Higher Than Anticipated

Getting a DUI traffic violation can cause auto insurance rates to go up for years. The average coverage rates increase is 83% or $1,484 per year. This is because insurers consider those with a DUI more likely to make a coverage policy claim.

After a DUI conviction, courts often require an SR-22 proof of insurance form from the auto insurance provider to reinstate a driver's motor vehicle license. Higher premiums may be required for a period of up to five years, with the amount of increase influenced by factors such as age, driving record, and location.

To lower costs compare your current auto insurance limits and quotes with some of the cheapest progressive DUI insurance rates before picking a policy. Knowing the impact of a DUI on coverage car insurance rates can help you choose the right coverage within your budget.

Various Factors Can Impact One's Car Insurance in Illinois Following a DUI Conviction

Insurance premiums can vary based on age and driving experience. Young drivers may pay more due to higher risk, especially with a first-time DUI conviction. Older drivers with multiple DUI convictions may also face premium increases.

Young drivers who are inexperienced or have poor defensive driving habits may face consequences such as increased insurance price hikes or cancellation of coverage, even with just one DUI conviction. Senior drivers with multiple DUIs within three years may also face uncertainty and higher insurance costs.

a lawyer discussing car insurance rates with his client after a DUI

Alcohol-impaired drivers in Illinois will see an impact on their driver profiles which will potentially affect the cost of car insurance rates. Insurance providers take into account the severity of offenses when deciding whether to raise premiums or cancel policies. A drunk driving citation or misdemeanor conviction may be viewed more leniently.

Auto insurance premiums increase for aggravated intoxicated driver convictions or felony-level offenses. The length of time since conviction affects the impact on affordable car insurance rates. While those under 25 face steeper increases by auto insurance carriers due to increased risk.

The Effect of an Underage DUI

Young drivers who are found driving with a blood alcohol content over the legal limit face more severe consequences than experienced drivers. Having a DUI criminal offense on their record can make it hard to get auto insurance bodily injury liability coverage, and annual car insurance rates will be higher than what older drivers pay for the same policy.

Older impaired offenders with multiple DUIs in recent years who are considered extremely high-risk drivers will also experience an increase in auto insurance. Insurance companies consider drivers who have multiple DUIs within a year to be at a higher risk of alcohol-related car accidents due to their recklessness.

Getting caught for alcohol-impaired driving has long-term implications, with points added to licenses and other charges visible on motor vehicle report records for years, affecting future comprehensive insurance policy applications.

How Many Moving Violations Are On Your Record?

DUI charges lead to expensive insurance rates with long-lasting consequences. Premiums are calculated based on a person's driving history record for three to five years. Even after a drunken driving charge, other violations such as erratic driving behavior, and driving under the influence of prescription drugs are still considered for a duration of time.

an SR-22 insurance policy with a pen, calculator and glasses sitting on it

Insurance companies view drunk driving changes as a high-risk behavior and adjust rates accordingly. In some states, premiums must be paid for years before legally driving again. Those convicted of drunk driving incidents should avoid further violations for some time to reduce personal insurance premium costs.

How Many Times Have You Been Charged With DUI?

Getting a DUI charge can have serious consequences that last a long time. Your insurance rates will go up a lot with each DUI charge on your record, especially if you have two or more. These costs add up fast and make it hard to save money. You need to learn from your mistakes and take responsibility, so you don't get caught up in repeat offenses.

If you get multiple DUIs, you could face expensive fines, lose your license, need high-risk insurance, or even go to jail.

Illinois' SR-22 Requirement

In Illinois, a DUI conviction requires an SR-22 certificate as proof of financial responsibility insurance. The certificate shows that you meet the minimum requirements for auto liability insurance coverage. To get an SR-22, contact your car insurance company and inform them of your situation. They may cancel or keep your existing policy and issue you the certificate.

To maintain legal and safe driving on the roads, it's important to file with the Secretary of State to prevent license suspension. Filing an SR-22 may result in higher premiums, but it's necessary to maintain liability coverage.

Contact an Experienced Naperville DUI Attorney Today

If you've been arrested for a DUI in Illinois, you could face serious consequences, such as steep fines, jail time, and a hike in auto insurance premiums. A DUI conviction can significantly raise your car insurance rates and your deductible, or even lead to policy cancellation.

For assistance in legal advice and lessening the monetary consequences of a DUI on your vehicle insurance, seek guidance from a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer at Naperville DUI.

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