Ousama M. Rasheed Criminal Law Blog on Lawyers.com

How a DWI Conviction Affects Your Insurance

Monday, February 13, 2012 by Ousama M. Rasheed

Insurance companies run their business by evaluating risk. The greater the risk involved, the higher the premiums they charge to insure against risk factors. Like any other type of insurance, this operating basis applies to policyholders buying car insurance. For example, because teenagers are statistically more prone to car accidents, they are in a high risk category. Insuring a teenager is more expensive than insuring a middle aged driver. It stands to reason that motorists convicted of DWI also find themselves in higher risk categories.

However, what happens with your insurance rates after a DWI also depends on the state where you live. The best protection against rising insurance rates is to avoid DWI charges, and obtaining an experienced DWI lawyer in Albuquerque may help avoid DWI conviction.

What is an SR-22?

Some states have an SR-22, which is a form motorists must fill out for insurance purposes when falling into an at-risk insurance category based on past violations. The form helps the Motor Vehicle Division or Department for that state ensure that the motorist is financially responsible for vehicle damages in the event of an accident. The SR-22 acts as a red flag to insurance companies, signaling DWI risk. Insurance companies respond either by raising rates, not renewing insurance, or canceling insurance. While New Mexico does not require SR-22s, if motorists move to New Mexico from a state requiring an SR-22, then they must continue to meet the requirements of that other state even though now residing in New Mexico.

Not all insurance companies are willing to insure motorists convicted of DWI, and those that do may raise premiums anywhere from five to 100 percent. According to Bill Martin, Senior Vice President at Farmers Insurance, a DWI conviction can increase insurance premiums by 25 to 35 percent.

The best way to keep premiums low is not to drink and drive. However, failing that, you need a strong criminal defense to fight DWI charges.

Rely on the skills of a seasoned DWI lawyer

Rasheed & Associates, P.A. is a criminal defense law firm in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Our DWI attorneys in Albuquerque provide aggressive defense in drunk driving cases. Mr. Rasheed brings to the table his previous experience handling hundreds of cases as a former DWI prosecutor. He understands the prosecution’s strategies and how to mount a strong DWI defense. Call 505-246-8474 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.

Posted at 18:32 PM

Topic: Criminal Law