INSURANCE IMPLICATIONS

Some insurers routinely check their customers driving records for DUI/DWI and other offenses.  A conviction for a DUI/DWI charge will also be routinely reported to the motor vehicles office of your state and/or your insurance company.  If they find out, your insurance rates will almost certainly go up.

Another more direct way insurers find out about DUI/DWI charges is from your being required to file an SR-22 form.  This form requires your insurance company to notify the state that your insurance is in effect and if it is gets cancelled.  Some companies will cancel you mid-policy for a DUI/DWI charge when they get the SR-22 form or other notice.  Others will almost certainly raise your rates.

While it is possible that your insurer – through oversight, will miss your DUI/DWI, the bump you will likely get in your rates (or policy cancellation) is a strong reason to fight your charge.