DWI Convictions and Insurance Rates in Texas
If you’re facing a DWI charge, your insurance rates are probably one of the last things on your mind. However, in addition to a possible criminal record and jail time, a DWI conviction can result in a number of potential financial consequences, one of which is an increase in your insurance rates. Below are answers to some common questions about DWI convictions and insurance rates in Texas.
What causes auto insurance rates to increase after a DWI conviction?
Your auto insurance rates will increase following a DWI conviction due to the perceived risk you present to your auto insurer. DWI-related crashes cause tens of thousands of deaths each year and result in billions of dollars in damages. When you are convicted of DWI, your insurance carrier offsets the risk you present by increasing your premium.
How much will my rates increase after a DWI conviction?
If you are convicted of a DWI, your increase will depend on a number of factors specific to your situation. However, you can expect up to a 100% rate increase in Texas. In addition, when determining your rates, your insurance company will review the previous several years of your driving record, meaning that a DWI can continue to affect your rates well after your conviction.
What is a financial responsibility insurance certificate?
In addition to an increase in your auto insurance rates, you’ll be required to obtain a financial responsibility insurance certificate following a DWI conviction in Texas, which provides proof that you have an insurance policy that is compliant with the requirements of your state.
How can I avoid an increase in my auto insurance rates after a DWI arrest?
If, after a DWI arrest, you enroll in a program like pre-trial diversion, you can avoid conviction and the suspension of your license, thereby negating any possible effect on your insurance rates. And if your case is dismissed or your charge is reduced, you may reduce or eliminate the need for a financial responsibility insurance certificate, which will also prevent your auto insurance rates from rising. However, it is difficult to have your charges reduced or eliminated without the guidance of an experienced Texas DWI attorney. Therefore, if you’ve been charged with a DWI, you should contact a Texas DWI defense attorney as soon as possible.
Texas DWI and DUI Legal Representation
Due to the severity of the consequences, both legal and financial, experienced representation is imperative when facing DWI or DUI charges in Texas. Therefore, if you’ve been charged with a DWI or DUI, it’s important that you engage the services of an experienced Texas criminal defense firm in order to achieve the best possible results in your case. Phil Baker, P.C., who has a proven track record of successfully defending clients against DWI and DUI charges throughout the state of Texas, will work tirelessly in order to achieve the best possible outcome in your case. Please contact us for a consultation.
Posted in: DWI/DUI, DWI/DUI Defense
