Getting a DUI conviction in South Carolina can have a significant impact on your insurance rates. The conviction stays on your record for at least three years and can affect your rates for up to seven years.
Insurance companies see DUI convictions as serious and often raise premiums by a significant amount or refuse coverage altogether. The increase in rates depends on the severity of the offense, your driving history, and the insurance company's policies. On average, rates can be 10-25% higher than those without a DUI conviction.
In addition to higher rates, you may need to file an SR-22 insurance form with the DMV to prove that you have the minimum required liability car insurance coverage. You must keep the SR-22 form on file for three years or until all fines and fees are paid. Insurance agents regularly check driving records, so stay updated and inform your auto insurance company of any traffic violations or convictions.
For help with a DUI charge contact Touma Law Group at 864-618-2323. You can schedule a free consultation with a Greenville DUI defense attorney to discuss your case and review your legal options.
How Does a DUI Affect Auto Insurance?
A DUI conviction in South Carolina can result in serious consequences for your auto insurance. Being convicted for having a blood alcohol content above the legal limit is considered a major violation and can negatively impact cheap car insurance premiums for five years or longer.
When applying for a policy, the insurer will consider the number of years since the DUI and any evidence of safe driving behavior. The longer it has been since the conviction and if there have been no other violations, it may help reduce your insurance policy annual rate.
The severity of the drunk driving infraction offense and your driving record history will also affect the increase in your insurance provider premium. The choice of insurance company can also influence the rate increase.
How Long Will My DUI Conviction Affect My Insurance Rates?
A DUI conviction in South Carolina can have severe penalties on your driving privileges and impact your auto insurance rates for up to five years. Insurance companies take into account driving with a blood alcohol level above the legal limit when renewing or purchasing car insurance coverage, which may lead to increased premiums.
It's important to note that some insurers may consider a longer time frame when assessing the risk of coverage. To ensure the best deal, it is recommended to compare average car insurance rates from multiple companies.
Do You Have to Keep SR-22 Insurance if You Move States After a DUI?
If you move to a new state after receiving a DUI conviction in South Carolina, the impact on your auto insurance premiums will depend on the laws and regulations of the new state.
Generally, many states have similar laws when it comes to DUIs, meaning that if you are convicted of a DUI in one state, you will still be required to have SR-22 insurance after moving.
In some cases, however, states may have different laws governing DUIs and how the conviction is treated. It is important to do research on the laws of your new state before attempting to purchase auto insurance to avoid penalties or higher premiums due to a DUI conviction.
How Can I Lower My Car Insurance Rates After a DUI?
If you have been convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) in South Carolina, you may be wondering how long your car insurance auto policy rates will be affected. The answer depends on a variety of factors, including the severity of the DUI conviction and your insurer's coverage policy.
In general, a DUI conviction will remain on your driving record for up to five years. During this time, your car insurance premiums are likely to be higher than usual. However, there are steps you can take to help lower your rates over time.
One of the best ways to lower your insurance premiums is to maintain a clean driving record. Avoiding any additional driving violations or infractions can help demonstrate to insurers that you are a responsible driver and reduce the risk associated with providing coverage.
Additionally, taking advantage of any available discounts can also help lower your rates. For example, some insurers offer insurance quote discounts for completing a defensive driving course or installing an anti-theft device in your vehicle.
If You Are Convicted of a DUI in Another State Does it Affect Your Insurance in SC?
If you have been convicted of a DUI offense in another state, it can still affect your insurance rates in South Carolina. The rules regarding how long a DUI conviction will affect your insurance rates vary from state to state. In general, insurance companies view drivers with DUI convictions as high-risk drivers and may raise their rates accordingly.
In South Carolina, if you are convicted of a DUI in another state, the conviction will be reported to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles and can remain on your driving record for up to five years.
As a result, any time you shop for car insurance in the state of South Carolina, the DUI conviction may be taken into consideration and could result in higher premiums.
How a DUI Lawyer Can Help
If you have been charged with a DUI in South Carolina, you may be concerned about how long it will affect your average auto insurance rate. While the impact on your auto insurance policy can vary depending on the seriousness of the offense and other factors, a DUI generally can stay on your record for up to five years.
During that time, you may face higher premiums or even difficulty finding anyone other than a high-risk car insurance company willing to cover you at all.
At Touma Law Group, our experienced Greenville defense attorneys are here to help protect your rights and work with you to reach the best possible outcome in your case. We understand the complexities of DUI laws and will be able to provide you with knowledgeable guidance throughout each step of your case. Contact us today for a consultation.