DUI or driving under influence of alcohol or drugs is unfortunately the number one cause of traffic related accidents in the United States, many of them leading to fatalities. With the ever increasing statistics of traffic related deaths every year, insurance companies have come down hard on offenders by increasing auto insurance rates for those who have been convicted in the past. Insure4USA.com, a leading online insurance service, recently released a publication on the short-term and long-term effects of DUI on auto insurance rates.
Alex, CEO of Insure4USA.com says, "Offenders are subject to several punishments by the government. This is a serious offense where temporary or permanent cancellation of a driver's license is not uncommon. Serious damages and physical injuries can attract jail terms or additional community service. Of course, this can all be pretty humiliating and expensive as well. Legal expenses and fines all add up, especially when it comes to court hearings."
According to the publication, car insurance rates are affected significantly even if a case is cleared. Insurance companies classify those who have been convicted of a DUI offense as "high-risk drivers." In addition, they may not entertain any renewal of the policy, making it hard to find another insurance firm that may oblige with a new policy. Insurance companies issue an SR-22 form to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which makes them responsible for their clients and their vehicles, which is the main reason why insurance premiums are raised significantly.
According to Alex, the effects of a DUI conviction on auto insurance can last for anything between 10 to 30 years, which means that there is no escape from higher auto insurance rates for a long time. It is only when the DMC clears or erases the record that affordable insurance can become an option once again. Alex adds, "All this is only for the betterment of society and the good of consumers. No one wants to face lifelong disability or the death of their loved one due to an irresponsible driver. Drivers ought to think twice before even think of sitting in their car after consuming alcohol. By becoming socially responsible, they will be doing themselves and the society a world of good; otherwise the prospects of high insurance rates, jail terms, and cancellation of their driving license will always remain high."
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