What started as a fun night with friends can quickly turn serious if you’re pulled over and arrested for a DWI. Understanding the impacts this charge has is crucial, as it can affect all aspects of your life. One area people might not consider is how this decision can have intense financial impacts. A DWI conviction can raise your insurance rates, as your carrier will deem you a “high-risk” driver. Facing a driving under the influence charge is a serious matter that requires the help of a Kaufman County, Texas DWI lawyer. Keep reading to learn more about the impact a DWI can have on your insurance coverage.
How Much Will My Insurance Rates Increase?
After a DWI charge, you can expect a drastic change to your annual insurance rates. Many carriers will raise the rates for those convicted of driving while intoxicated as they are more likely to get into an accident. However, your insurance carrier is not obligated to continue covering you after a DWI charge, and they may drop you from their plan.
Generally, Texans with a DWI charge can face an increase of at least 50%. However, this does not include the annual $1,000 fee the state charges those convicted of a DWI if they want to retain their license. This charge lasts for three years following a conviction.
What Is an SR-22?
An SR-22 is a type of high-risk insurance that Texas requires those convicted of a DWI to carry. The state requires this to prove that a driver has obtained the minimum liability coverage allowed by law following a DWI. These requirements include:
$30,000 for bodily injuries
$25,000 for property damage
$60,000 for an accident that results in death
You will need this insurance certificate for the first two years after a DWI charge and must be signed by an insurance representative. In some instances, the company may charge a signing fee as well as a filing fee. You will also need to pay an additional $100 fee to reinstate your license after you obtain the SR-22 insurance.
How Can an Attorney Help?
A DWI charge is a serious charge that can have severe social and financial implications. Many think there is no way to evade this crime. However, a seasoned attorney will do everything in their power to help keep your criminal record clean. This includes examining the circumstances of your arrest, such as whether or not the breathalyzer was properly calibrated, whether the field sobriety test was administered correctly, or if the stop was legal.
When you need an attorney, Harrell & Paulson is here to help. We will do everything in our power to help fight these charges by exploring all possible avenues for defense. Contact us today to connect with our dedicated legal team for a free consultation with one of our seasoned attorneys.
