DUI and Car Insurance

Following an individual’s DUI conviction, insurance companies will increase the individual’s car insurance premiums by as much as two to three times the original insurance premium. There are no laws that regulate premium changes following a DUI charge; instead, these changes vary widely from company to company. It is in the individual’s best interest to comparison shop for new insurance when the individual’s policy expires, to make sure that one company is not drastically increasing an individual’s premium over another company.

Auto insurance companies may check an individual’s motor vehicle record only once every three years or when a policy has expired. In certain situations, it may be possible that the insurer does not discover that a DUI charge has been placed on the individual’s record. However, in California and in most other states, the Department of Motor Vehicles requires DUI offenders to submit a SR-22 form signed by their insurance company in order to receive a restricted license. This form proves to the California DMV that the individual carries liability insurance and also requires the insurance company to notify the DMV if the company chooses to cancels the individual’s auto insurance for any reason. If this is the case, the insurance company would be alerted to the individual’s DUI charge when the request for a SR-22 is made. In other cases, an insurance company may not offer an SR-22 policy and therefore, an individual’s insurance may be cancelled or may not be renewed because the company is unable to fulfill the DMV’s request.

Effective January 1, 2005, California law requires every insurer selling private automobile insurance policies to provide consumers with estimated insurance premium quotes. A list of the admitted automobile insurers is maintained by the California Department of Insurance Consumers' Overview section, or by calling (800) 927-4357.

Devermont & Devermont
Attorneys at Law

429 Santa Monica Blvd. #210   •   Santa Monica, CA 90401
Toll-Free: (888) 900-6666   •   Cell-Phone: (310) 393-0308
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Testimonials:


"Derek is a competent professional lawyer who knows how to get things done without the bureaucratic process found at most firms. I was in need of help quickly and Derek stepped up right away with the know how and tenacity to tackle any problem. I felt completely comfortable being out of town and having Derek take care of my issue and he solved it with ease. I recommend him greatly and would absolutely work with him in the future." Dan F

 

"After being cited for a Misdemeanor DUI, I was influenced by many to just face the consequences because "hiring a lawyer never works out in your benefit". I was terrified and confused until I met Mr. Devermont so I decided to take my chances. He assured me that I didn't have to worry anymore, and even at times where I wanted to give up he fought harder. My BAC was .11 but Derek managed to get my citation reduced to a dry reckless. I would highly recommend him to anyone!" Kelly B

 

"Derek Devermont is the best DUI lawyer anyone can ever ask for. Not only is he competent and industrious, Derek would go the extra mile for his clients to ensure the best possible outcome. I was unfortunately charged with DUI when I was 20 years old. Without me doing anything (appear in court, speak to the judge, etc), Derek won the case for me. Derek's favorite saying goes like this "don't worry, leave the worrying to me. I'm your lawyer." Thanks to Derek, I was able to keep my driving privileges, and preserve my life. He secured a not guilty verdict and erased any license suspension. " Jennifer F