Common & Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Insurance
Personal insurance coverage to protect you and your family. Since 1989, we have been the trusted choice of motorists and homeowners in the Carolinas. As an independent agency, we compare rates from a wide array of leading insurance companies to find you the right coverage at the lowest possible price in North Carolina and South Carolina.
What Can I Expect from my Insurance Company if I get a Drunk Driving Citation?
Most insurance companies check your motor vehicle record once a year. Some, only once every three years or when you're applying for a new policy. Sometimes, accidents, tickets, and drunk-driving convictions can escape your insurer's attention. If your insurer DOES find out about a DUI conviction, you will see higher rates and possibly the task of seeking a new company due to them not renewing your insurance.
There are two ways insurance companies generally deal with customers convicted of DUI. First, your insurer may cancel you. In other cases, they will raise your premiums due to increasing your "point" count, almost to the point of "unaffordability."
In the current insurance marketplace, it is probably better to seek out a specialist for your insurance coverages, rather than remain with your current carrier. We have over 20 years of experience in placing DUI coverage. We have helped thousands of drivers reinstate their licenses. In some cases, you may need an attorney to save your license, especially if facing a court trial or if this is your second offense. In other cases, if the DUI has already been to conviction, you may not need an attorney since most questions can be answered by the DMV or an insurance agent specializing in DUI coverages. We can answer most "POST-conviction" questions for you at NO CHARGE. Insurers can sometimes miss DUI convictions.
What process is involved in reinstating my license?
1.) You need to know what is on your driving record.
2.) You will need to call the DMV to ask them what is needed to reinstate your license.
With that information, we can help find you the LOWEST PRICE for insurance, so the next step is getting a quotation for the proper coverage you need (auto, cycle, RV, light commercial truck, etc.
Call us TOLL FREE: 1-800-273-2222 to get a confirmed quote, or request an auto insurance price quotation for FREE. If the price is OK with you, we will fax or mail you the paperwork.
How Long Does a DUI Stay on my Record?
A DUI violation stays on your driving record for 7 years. It is rated for points by insurance companies for 3 years, so that is some relief, but most preferred carriers do not take drivers with DUI violations.
Will I Pay Higher Rates?
Many insurers regard DUI and DWI offenders as an unacceptable or high risk. Some insurers that provide DUI Insurance may charge drivers with significantly higher rates. Fortunately there are insures that offer favorable rates to drivers who have learned to be safer drivers by completing safe driving programs and/or substance abuse programs
DUI & First Time Offenders
First time DUI and DWI offenders may likely have to file an SR-22 (or FR-44) Certificate of Financial Responsibility Form showing that they have the proper amount of auto insurance.