How long does a DUI affect insurance in California?

A DUI affects insurance rates for 3-10 years, depending on the driver’s state and insurance company. Most insurance companies look back 3-5 years for infractions on a driving record, but some look back as far as seven years. And even if a DUI doesn’t cause a driver’s rates to skyrocket long-term, it can have a lingering effect on costs. For example, insurance companies in California legally can’t offer you a good driver discount for 10 years after a DUI conviction.… read full answer

During the period in which it directly affects premiums, a DUI conviction causes insurance rates to rise by about 80% on average, although each insurer and state is different. If you practice good habits in the years following a DUI, however, you’ll eventually see your rates fall back down.

Since every insurance company has its own lookback period for driving records, you’ll need to check with your insurer to know exactly how long your rates will be affected by a DUI. But keep in mind that even after your costs go down, a DUI will likely appear on your driving record for much longer, depending on your state. While some states like Maryland and Hawaii only require it to remain for five years, others such as Texas and Oregon keep it on your record for life.

Some of the best car insurance companies for California drivers with a DUI are Mercury, Geico, and State Farm. These companies offer rates that are more affordable than average, have high customer satisfaction ratings, and will file an SR-22 if you need it.

Still, post-DUI car insurance won’t be cheap for California drivers. Even the best car insurance in California for drivers with a DUI will cost 75% to 250% more than the average for drivers with a clean record. Premiums increase by an average of about 180% after a DUI conviction in California.… read full answer

As a result, it’s all the more important to compare quotes in search of a reasonable rate after getting a DUI in California. That’s true across the country, but California state laws don’t allow insurance companies to use factors like age, gender, or credit history to set your premium. That only increases the impact of your driving record.

Drivers in California need to keep their SR-22 certification active with the state for 3 consecutive years. In order to do so, drivers must maintain at least the minimum car insurance coverage required by California law: bodily injury insurance of at least $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident, plus $5,000 of coverage for property damage. If there is any lapse in coverage, the clock resets.… read full answer

When you get SR-22 insurance coverage in California, your insurance company files your SR-22 certification with the state on your behalf. Your insurer also notifies the state if you cancel your policy or allow it to lapse prematurely. You need to maintain your SR-22 even if you move from California.

If you’re unable to afford your payments, contact your insurance agency before you miss a bill. You can request a different payment plan or get information about subsidized plans that may be more affordable.