Tips on Buying Auto Insurance After a Drunk Driving Charge

by MARIA PALMA

After being charged for a DUI you may discover that trying to buy car insurance can be frustrating and challenging. Many car insurance companies will not cover you because now you're considered a risky driver. However, there are still insurance companies out there that will give you coverage, that is, if you are willing to pay enormous down payments and premiums.

If you're currently covered by an insurance company, a DUI charge may not immediately affect in you in the short-term because some companies will only screen your driving record every few years or so. It may be awhile before your insurance company discovers your DUI conviction. That's when they'll probably raise your premiums.

When you apply for car insurance, the company weighs in many factors in their decision on whether or not to offer you insurance. Some simply just take a glance at your driving record while others will look at your driving record plus your credit report to see where you're at with your finances. Then there are other companies that will look at your claims history reporting. All of these things are looked at and pieced together to create an "insurance score".

After a DUI charge, you'll need to get an SR-22 which is a form that provides proof of insurance. It lets the DMV know that the car insurance company has offered you minimum liability coverage. This SR-22 is required if you want to request a restricted license.

When it's time to shop for insurance, make sure to obtain several rate quotes before making a decision on a policy. Get help from your DUI defense lawyer and ask if he/she knows of any insurance companies that are able to help you with filing your SR-22.

Maria Palma is a freelance writer committed to helping people with their San Diego DUI. Make sure to hire a professional DUI lawyer in San Diego. Experienced and dedicated San Diego DUI lawyers can best help you with your case