A DUI is one of the most severe driving violations a driver can make. DUIs, or Driving Under the Influence, is when a driver operates their vehicle while intoxicated due to alcohol or other substance that can impair your motor skills. 

Because of the extreme risks associated with these infractions, you’re likely to face stiff penalties, one of which might be a higher rate from your car insurer. Your penalties can vary depending on your state and your insurance provider. Where an at fault accident may last on your record for three years, a DUI can remain on your record for up to 10 years. 

The Severity of DUIs  

Alcohol, illicit drugs and even prescription drugs can cause severe side effects for consumers. Being drunk or high impairs the way your brain can process and react to new information. Therefore, intoxication in any form is a risk to drivers.  

You need all your faculties to be able to drive safely. You have to be able to identify risks and navigate around them quickly. The effects of intoxication can easily diminish your capacity to hear, see and react appropriately to quick developments and hazards that exist on the road ahead. As a result, you might have a significant risk of causing wrecks or other accidents while driving in this state.  

The police can often spot individuals suspected of driving under the influence, simply by noticing the fact the vehicle is not under full control. If they catch you in such a condition, they are likely to charge you with DUI. This is a massive infraction of driving laws, and you must be willing to accept the penalties of committing such an offense.  

DUIs And Your Car Insurance  

Once you receive a DUI charge, it will go on your driving record as part of the penalty phase. This can have significant ramifications for your driving future.  

Because your record will reflect the DUI, your insurer will likely find out about it. This will either happen immediately or the next time you try to renew your insurance policy. It is one of the clearest signals possible that you are a high-risk driver.  

If they do not cancel your policy (which can happen if insurers cannot afford the risk of covering DUI recipients), then your insurer will likely significantly increase your rates. It’s something you must expect, but it’s also something that your insurance agent can help you control and mitigate.  

If you have any questions after a DUI, speak with your insurance agent about ways you can keep your policy.