Reader’s Question:

I have a recent conviction for DUI here in Jacksonville, Florida. I know that this will have a negative impact on my driving record, but how will this affect my car insurance?

Dwight

Jacksonville, FL

A DUI conviction in Jacksonville, Florida will sure have a larger effect on your car insurance. On top of the fines and penalties imposed, you can expect to have a hard hit from insurance rates.

Because of your DUI conviction, you are required to show an SR22 form so that you can get your driver’s license back. SR22 is not a type of insurance as much as proof that a driver has the various types of insurance required by the state of Florida. This is filed by an insurance company and states that the driver in question has auto liability insurance and it is in effect. Most auto insurance carriers will be able to provide an SR22 form and may be able to insure your vehicle as well. But you will be considered a high-risk driver by the insurance companies if you request for SR22. Because of that, you can expect the insurance premiums paid to possibly double, maybe even triple. The increase in insurance premiums can be even worse if you had previous discounts for a safe driving record and no claims on your insurance.

Since you were convicted for DUI, you may find it quite beneficial to shop around for the best car insurance rates possible. There are many insurance companies that specialize in providing high-risk policies. You can also insure one vehicle on a high-risk policy and put all other vehicles and drivers on a different policy.

Tags: drunk driving insurance, DUI, insurance, SR22 insurance