How Much Will My Car Insurance Rates Increase After a DUI in West Virginia? 2024

Many people associate DUIs with fines, suspended driving privileges, and possible jail time, but there are lingering consequences following a conviction that can last for years after a DUI case is settled. If you were recently charged with a DUI, you may be wondering, “How much will my car insurance rates increase after a DUI in West Virginia?”

Car Insurance Rates Increase Following a DUI

A DUI conviction can have serious consequences for your personal finances. Insurance companies are in the business of making profits, and they assess the financial liability of policyholders on a regular basis and set monthly premium rates accordingly. Factors that an insurance carrier may consider when setting insurance rates may include:

• DUI conviction history
• Age and driving experience
• Location and accident statistics in the area
• Make and model of the vehicle
• Driving record and prior violations

Since a DUI conviction means that a driver is more likely to be in an accident that causes vehicular damage or bodily harm, insurance companies often raise rates for those drivers. Nationally, the average annual premium for a driver with a DUI jumps to $3,837 — almost double the rate of a driver with a clean record.

A second DUI elevates rates to around $5,780, and some insurers may refuse coverage altogether. Rate hikes vary by insurer. Drivers with DUIs often need high-risk coverage, as insurers view them as more likely to be involved in accidents.

Further Effects of a DUI

The length of time that a driver has to pay higher rates depends on their insurance carrier’s policy. On average, drivers can expect to pay higher rates for several years before insurance companies consider reducing rates. Since West Virginia mandates all drivers to maintain liability insurance, there are very few options available to avoid paying higher rates.

Once a driver has a DUI conviction, they can try to shop around for a policy that has minimal rate increases, although there is no guarantee that effort would yield significant savings. Insurance carriers that offer lower premiums can afford fewer benefits, so switching carriers could come with drawbacks.

Beyond insurance rate increases and possible criminal penalties, drivers may find that securing work is more difficult. Employers may disqualify job applicants based on criminal records, and a DUI is considered a serious offense. Jobs that require driving or using company cars may be out of reach for anyone with a DUI on their record.

How to Prevent an Insurance Rate Hike

Once you have a DUI conviction there is no way to hide that information from your insurance carrier. Insurance companies regularly check driving records through the DMV, where DUI convictions are recorded.

The one opportunity you have to beat a DUI is to fight the charges while they are still pending. There are no predetermined outcomes in court, and defendants have a strong chance of having their charges reduced or dropped when they have legal representation.

An attorney can review the specifics of your case to determine where the prosecution’s case has weak points. By questioning the accusations made against you and scrutinizing the evidence, your lawyer can seek reduced or dropped criminal charges. The long-term cost-savings for hiring an attorney can greatly benefit defendants by providing a path toward maintaining a clear criminal record.

FAQs

Why Do Insurance Rates Go Up Following a DUI?

Insurance companies are focused on making profits. To do so, they perform a cost-benefit analysis on policyholders. Someone with a DUI poses a significant risk for insurance companies because they have demonstrated past reckless actions when it comes to driving. To insure a driver with a DUI, insurance companies raise their rates accordingly.

How Long Does a DUI Affect Your Insurance in West Virginia?

The length of time a DUI affects your insurance will vary depending on the individual carrier’s policy. Returning to your previous monthly rates would likely be contingent on you not receiving a traffic ticket or vehicle-related criminal charge. If you have further questions, you should contact an experienced West Virginia DUI lawyer.

How Long Does It Take for a DUI to Come Off Your Record in West Virginia?

If you do not take proactive steps and meet certain qualifications, a DUI will remain on your criminal record indefinitely. Senate Bill 186, which was adopted in 2010, allows first-time DUI offenders to have their record expunged if they meet certain qualifications, such as admitting guilt and installing an ignition interlock system for six months. After one year, they can apply to have their DUI expunged from their record.

What Happens When You Get a First DUI in West Virginia?

West Virginia’s Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may suspend your driver’s license if you get a DUI. You may have the option to enter the state’s Alcohol Test and Lock Program, which allows for early reinstatement with an ignition interlock device (IID). It requires you to pass a breath test to start your vehicle. Having legal representation can help you avoid a first-time conviction for DUI.

What Is the New DUI Law in West Virginia?

A senate bill from 2020 abolished the administrative hearing process, integrating it directly into criminal court proceedings. Proponents argue that this change streamlines the process, saving time, reducing personnel needs, and conserving state funds. However, critics view this move as a regression to the practices of the 1940s when administrative hearings were first introduced.

Schedule Your DUI Consultation Today

The consequences of a DUI conviction go well beyond possible jail time and fines. Long-term financial consequences could include the rising costs of car insurance. You can take proactive steps to prevent a DUI conviction by hiring a DUI attorney who knows how to get results.

West Virginians know who to call if they are in legal trouble. Crowe Law, LLC has represented many clients who were charged with a DUI. We know how to get results when it comes to reducing the penalties our clients face. To schedule your consultation, contact our office today.