Reader’s Question:

I just got cited for drunk driving for the first time. Why do I need high risk auto insurance?

Ian

Austin, TX

Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol and/or any prohibited or regulated drugs is a serious offense in all states. Though the penalties may vary from state to state, an offender is commonly prosecuted with both administrative and criminal charges. The former is acted upon by the state’s local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This will usually involve deliberation on whether to suspend your driver’s license, your car registration or confiscate your car. The latter can lead to imprisonment and/or community service. The penalties or punishment you may receive all depends on how serious the consequences of your actions were. Perhaps as a first-time offender, you can expect a little leniency. Both actions, however, will involve expensive legal fines.

One other unavoidable result of a DUI citation is high risk auto insurance. Even if it was your first time (and hopefully the last time) to be cited for such an offense, even if no one else was injured, auto insurance companies will now see you as an unsafe driver and will therefore raise your rates. A DUI conviction also results in a court-ordered SR22. So, your auto insurance provider is also obligated to raise your premiums to high-risk level.

High risk auto insurance is necessary after a DUI. It is probably the only way you can get your driving privileges back.