Here’s How Hiring The Right DUI Attorney Can Prevent That From Happening
Getting slapped with a DUI can feel like a gut punch. You might be wondering if fighting the charges with an attorney is even worth it. After all, isn't it just a fine and a license suspension? Unfortunately, a DUI has a ripple effect that can impact your finances for years to come, especially when it comes to car insurance.
What Can You Expect After a DUI Charge?
There's no getting around it: a DUI conviction will result in a significant increase in your car insurance rates. On average, DUIs can cause your rates to jump by up to 70% according to Forbes Advisor's analysis, translating to an extra $1,470 a year based on national average rates. That's a hefty price tag, on top of any fines or court-mandated programs associated with your DUI.
The effects that a DUI conviction can have on your life are extensive and can be long-lasting if not handled properly. While a DUI conviction will surely get flagged by your insurance company, an experienced DUI attorney can make a world of difference. Here's how:
- Fighting the Charges: A skilled attorney can challenge the evidence against you and work towards getting the charges reduced or even dismissed. This could mean the difference between a DUI on your record and a clean slate, saving you thousands on car insurance over time.
- Negotiating a Plea Bargain: If dismissal isn't possible, your attorney can negotiate a plea bargain that minimizes the impact on your record. This might involve pleading guilty to a lesser charge, which could lead to a smaller increase in your insurance rates.
- Understanding Your State's Laws: DUI laws vary by state. An attorney familiar with the specifics of your state's DUI laws can build a stronger defense strategy and ensure you're taking advantage of all available options.
How Long Does A DUI Affect Your Insurance Rates?
The length of time a DUI impacts your rates depends on your state and insurance company. Generally, a DUI can stay on your record for anything from 3 to 7 years. However, insurance companies often consider it when setting rates for a longer period, sometimes up to 10 years.
For more specific information about how long a potential DUI will stay on your record, you should study your policy closely or contact your insurance representative directly.
How Far Back Will Insurance Companies Check For DUIs
While the exact timeframe can vary depending on the insurance company and your state's regulations, most insurers will typically look back at your driving record for the past 3 to 5 years when evaluating your car insurance rates. This window allows them to assess your recent driving behavior and risk profile. However, there are some situations where they might extend their search further:
- Severity of the DUI: A particularly severe DUI, like one involving an accident or injuries, might prompt an insurance company to dig deeper. They may request records for a longer period to understand your complete driving history and risk potential.
- Multiple DUIs: If you have a history of multiple DUIs, even if they fall outside the standard 3-5 year window, insurance companies are more likely to consider them when calculating your rates. This demonstrates a repeated pattern of risky behavior that could affect your future insurability.
- Moving Violations and Accidents: A history of moving violations or at-fault accidents, even minor ones, alongside a DUI, could raise a red flag for insurers. This combination might incentivize them to look back further at your driving record to get a more comprehensive picture.
- State Regulations: Some states have specific regulations regarding how far back insurance companies can look for driving violations. These regulations can impact the insurer's search window, potentially extending it beyond the typical 3-5 year timeframe.
Tips for Keeping Your Insurance Rates Low After a DUI
Getting a DUI charge seems scary, but it might not be tEven with a DUI on your record, there are steps you can take to improve your insurance situation:
- Shop Around: Don't automatically renew your policy with your current provider. Get quotes from multiple insurance companies to compare rates. Some insurers might be more forgiving of past offenses than others.
- Complete DUI Programs: Many states require completion of DUI education or alcohol awareness programs as part of the penalty for a DUI conviction. Completing these programs can demonstrate your commitment to responsible driving and might lead to lower rates from some insurers.
- Maintain a Clean Driving Record: For several years after a DUI, focus on maintaining a clean driving record by avoiding any further traffic violations or accidents. This positive behavior can eventually outweigh the negative impact of the DUI on your insurance rates.
Other Non-Insurance Related Consequences of Having a DUI On Your Record
While the financial sting of a DUI on your insurance is significant, it's not the only consequence. A DUI conviction can also impact your employment, limit your travel opportunities, and affect child custody agreements.
Anything that requires a criminal background check may be stalled by a DUI. Employers will often consider a DUI charge a red flag with your decision making ability and might not take the “risk” of hiring you. There are also policies against criminal backgrounds in some countries where you would need a visa to visit.
As for child custody, this can be the most devastating consequence. After all, no one wants to risk the safety of their child by putting them in a vehicle with a known DUI risk. Even if it was only one time out of the thousands of times you have driven, it can make it more difficult to obtain or maintain a favorable custody agreement.
Considering the long-term consequences of a DUI, the upfront cost of hiring an experienced attorney can be a wise investment. An attorney can fight for the best possible outcome in your case, potentially saving you money not just on car insurance, but in other areas of your life as well.
Trust Joe Good Law With Your Case
Don't navigate a DUI charge alone. The consequences of a DUI conviction can be severe, impacting your finances, driving privileges, and even your future employment opportunities. At Joe Good Law, we understand the complexities of DUI defense and are committed to fighting for the best possible outcome in your case.
