Will a DUI Conviction in Pennsylvania Affect My Insurance?

You face many serious penalties when convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) in Pennsylvania — including fines, license suspension, alcohol safety school requirements, installation of an ignition interlock device, and jail time. Not surprising, right? But many people are surprised by the effect a DUI conviction can have on the cost of their car insurance.

Pennsylvania law requires that you show proof of financial responsibility by obtaining SR22 insurance before the Department of Transportation (DOT) will reinstate your license.  This is because anyone convicted of DUI is viewed by law as a high risk-driver. And as a result, they must carry SR22 auto insurance for three full years after reinstatement of their driving privileges.

What if you let your insurance policy lapse sometime during this three-year period?  The law requires that your SR22 insurance carrier must notify the Pennsylvania DOT immediately. More bad news: DOT responds by suspending your license. If you want it reinstated, you must obtain insurance again and re-file proof of insurance with the DMV.

Basically, your expenses are not behind you once you pay those DUI fines. Instead, you face three years of paying for an expensive SR22 policy in order to keep your car on the road. But a skilled and knowledgeable DUI defense attorney can help you avoid all of that by fighting to reduce or eliminate your DUI charges in the first place. So do not go it alone when you face DUI charges. The costs are too high.