Insurance Problems: Another Reason To Fight Your DUI

Of all the issues affecting a driver arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), problems with auto insurance may not be the first that comes to mind. However, some drivers might need to understand the full impact of what a DUI conviction could mean. DUI charges can be challenged and you can avoid being convicted as long as you take action and get a DUI attorney on your case. In the meantime, take a look at how a DUI conviction could affect your ability to keep automobile insurance.

It's Only a Matter of Time

If you are covered by an existing policy, you may have a window of time to act before your insurer finds out about the problem. Most insurers do occasional checks on the driving records of existing customers when the policy renews. Almost any type of traffic violation can negatively affect your policy and make your premium rise higher. The sooner you begin fighting the charges, the easier it will be to escape the negative consequences of higher rates or dropped policies that can happen to those found guilty of DUI.

Driving License Problems

In many cases, the Department of Motor Vehicles and your insurer have a connection. That is how they find out about tickets and traffic arrests. In many cases, the problems for drivers arrested for DUI begin when their drivers' license is suspended pending the results of the case. You cannot be insured if you don't have a valid drivers' license. That is when having a criminal defense lawyer who understands what those arrested for DUI are going through comes in handy. They can act fast to deal with the loss of a license by asking the judge to allow you to have what is called a "hardship license". This temporary license allows drivers to go to work and other important places as long as they obey the restrictions such as hours of the day and days of the week when they can drive.

Take Action

Here are a few other things defendants can do about lessening the effects of a DUI arrest:

  1. Don't wait too long before getting legal help. Fast action is needed on some issues so the sooner you talk to a DUI lawyer the better.
  2. Ask your lawyer about other ways to prevent being convicted. Some districts have special programs for first-time offenders and others. These programs promise dropped charges if the participant attends counseling, classes, and more.
  3. You may avoid losing your license if you agree to have an ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle.

Speak to a DUI defense attorney to find out more.

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