Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Finding DWI Auto Insurance After a Conviction

There are few things that will cause your monthly car insurance premiums to skyrocket like being convicted of a DWI ('driving while intoxicated' or 'driving while impaired'). If you've got a DWI in your history, read this article to learn more on how to save on costly DWI auto insurance for yourself.

When someone insured by a major auto insurance provider is charged with a DWI, they are automatically assigned to a special high-risk group and their premiums may shoot up to over 400%. These high rates can remain for years, sometimes decades, without further offenses until they begin to decrease. In some cases, a person charged with a DWI may be dropped from their insurance policy altogether.

When you are convicted of a drinking-and-driving offense, you'll need to contact your insurance carrier and obtain an SR-22 certificate. This certificate removes your license suspension by proving that you are insured. Unfortunately, this is a red flag to your insurer that you have had a DWI arrest.

However, not all insurance carriers have SR-22 policies. State law determines exactly what can happen in that case. Your policy may be immediately cancelled, or it may become ineligible for renewal at the end of the term. Needless to say, no company likes getting a request for an SR-22.

If you have a DWI on your record it can be really hard to find auto insurance. Many major companies will not even consider insuring someone with a previous DWI or DUI. But there are insurance providers out there willing to insure you, so don't worry. It just takes a little searching.

Even those with restricted licenses due to DWIs are required by law to have access to auto insurance. Some companies even specialize in insuring motorists with previous DWIs on their records. Try searching the Internet to locate these companies and get advice on obtaining coverage after a DWI conviction. If you're looking for new coverage after a DWI, try working with an independent insurance agent who works with many different companies for a broader base of options.

You know that being arrested with a DWI can be humiliating and expensive in many ways. The added expense of high DWI auto insurance premiums can top the list. Don't resign to just let yourself become a victim of high rates. No matter what's on your record, shop around and be committed to finding a great insurance rate for yourself.

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