How Much Does a DUI Increase Your Auto Insurance?

It's football season and time to enjoy the cooler temps and social events like tailgating. 

If you're taking to the road to your favorite football game, drinking and driving can be one of the most expensive mistakes you can make, not to mention the legal, physical and emotional tolls. 
​
Do you know when you get a DUI, when it will show up on your insurance, how much to expect it to go up, and how long before it falls off your motor vehicle record (MVR)?

Typically, your insurance carrier will see this charge show up at renewal time or when you apply for an auto  policy.

 How long it stays on your MVR depends on the state. In Georgia, it stays on your driving record for 7 years; and in South Carolina, for 10 years. (It stays on your criminal record permanently.)
​
 Several factors related to your DUI are determined by the insurer and state working together. They determine the length of the look-back period, the amount of the insurance premium, and the status of your policy (could be cancelled). 

The "look-back" period, the number of years insurance carriers look back on your driving record, varies, but is commonly 3 - 5 years. For example, if your DUI is 6 years old, it's still on your driving record but may possibly not be seen by the insurer.

The average increase in insurance premiums as a result of a DUI is reported to be 70% across the country and ranges from 33% to 266% by state. Georgia premiums jump 93%, and South Carolina's premiums increase by 38%.

Regardless of where you live, it obviously doesn't pay to drink and drive.  It DOES pay to have an experienced independent insurance agent to help you protect your investment.​

Get better informed about personalized auto insurance options and secure the protection that's right for you.  Call me today at 706-726-1446.