Car Insurance for Suspended Drivers

Reader’s Question:

I will be losing my license because of the DUI conviction. Can I have my new car insured while my license is suspended so others may be able to use it?

Nina

Thank you for asking Nina.

I don’t think it is possible (or may be difficult) to carry auto insurance while your license is suspended. Once an insurance carrier finds out that your license is suspended, your insurance policy typically is canceled.

If there is another person that has registered or co-owns the new vehicle with you, she/he might be able to get insurance in their name for the car until your driver’s license is reinstated. If not then the finance company can get “force” insurance, in which they take out insurance on the car to protect their asset (the car) but it might not be enough for the coverage of others operating the vehicle.

If you are able to get a restricted driver’s license, while still serving your penalty for the DUI, then an insurance carrier will normally be able to insure you and your car.

Goodluck!

MariCAR

Will my Auto Insurance Go Up If I Add a DUI Driver in my Policy?

Reader’s Question:

I want to know if my insurance rate will go up if I add my mother who has a DUI conviction? We live in the same house.

Chris

Thank you for asking Chris.

It is probable that your insurance rate will increase after you add your mother to your insurance policy. Even if each of you maintain your own insurance policies, the insurance provider will take into account all of the drivers/motorist, in this case you and your mother, and their individual driving history on these policies. Most insurance providers base the insurance rates on the driver who develops the highest premium. This is usually the younger motorist. Since your mother has a serious violation, that might cause your premiums to increase as a result.

You may speak with your insurance company to know for sure how much the increase will be if you add your mother with a DUI in your policy.

Goodluck!

MariCAR

Does Car Insurance Companies Cancel Policy Due to DUI?

Reader’s Question:

If got convicted of DUI, does my insurance company cancel my policy?

Josh

Thank you for asking Josh.

State laws and insurance providers guidelines are different but a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) could result in an insurance carrier terminating your insurance policy. Sometimes your insurance provider may cancel insurance mid-term or terminate the insurance policy at the end of the term because of your conviction for DUI.

If your insurance policy is canceled in this manner, your provider must send you notification stating why your policy have been canceled and then you’ll have to find another insurance company while now having a cancellation on your insurance claims history. Some states do not permit insurance providers to just drop you in the middle of the policy term, even for a DUI. If you want to know more information about your state guidelines regarding this, check with your state’s insurance regulatory body.

Many states require you to file an SR22, and you will have to find a new insurance carrier that writes policies for SR22 coverage. It might be a good idea to start checking rates for SR22 insurance policies now and prepare for this additional expense.

Goodluck!

MariCAR