How a DUI Affects Your Insurance in Minnesota
A DUI conviction in Minnesota doesn’t just lead to legal consequences—it can also have a long-term impact on your auto insurance rates. After a DUI, many drivers see their insurance premiums increase significantly, and some may even have their policies canceled or find it difficult to get coverage. Below, we explain how a DUI affects your insurance in Minnesota and what steps you can take to mitigate the financial impact.
Increased Insurance Premiums After a DUI
Insurance companies view drivers with DUI convictions as high-risk, which typically leads to a substantial increase in your auto insurance premiums. In Minnesota, a DUI can raise your insurance rates by as much as 50% to 100%. These elevated rates can remain in effect for 3 to 10 years, depending on the insurance provider and the specifics of your conviction.
SR-22 Insurance Requirement
After a DUI conviction, Minnesota may require you to file an SR-22 form. This is a certificate of financial responsibility that proves you have the minimum insurance coverage required by law. SR-22 insurance is often more expensive than a standard auto insurance policy, as it’s designed for high-risk drivers. Your insurance company will file this form on your behalf, but not all insurers offer SR-22 coverage, so you may need to switch providers.
How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record?
A DUI conviction in Minnesota stays on your driving record for 10 years. During this time, insurance companies can use the conviction as a factor in determining your premiums. While some insurers may reduce your rates after a few years of clean driving, the DUI will likely affect your premiums for the entire 10-year period.
Options for Lowering Insurance Rates After a DUI
Although a DUI will increase your insurance rates, there are steps you can take to minimize the financial burden:
- Shop Around for Insurance: Some insurance companies specialize in providing coverage to high-risk drivers, and their rates may be more competitive than your current provider.
- Enroll in a Defensive Driving Course: Completing a state-approved defensive driving course may help reduce your insurance premiums by demonstrating that you are taking steps to improve your driving skills.
- Maintain a Clean Driving Record: The longer you drive without any further traffic violations or accidents, the more likely your insurance premiums will decrease over time.
- Consider Usage-Based Insurance: Some insurers offer programs that monitor your driving habits and adjust your premiums based on your actual driving behavior. If you’re a careful driver post-DUI, this could lead to lower rates.
Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance
If you don’t own a vehicle but need to meet the SR-22 requirement to reinstate your driving privileges, you can apply for non-owner SR-22 insurance. This type of insurance provides liability coverage when you’re driving a vehicle you don’t own. It’s usually less expensive than a standard auto insurance policy, but it still fulfills the state’s requirements for financial responsibility.
Why You Need a Duluth DUI Lawyer
After a DUI conviction, the financial burden of increased insurance premiums can be overwhelming. However, with the help of a skilled Duluth DUI lawyer, you may be able to reduce the long-term impact of a DUI on your insurance rates. By challenging the charges or negotiating a reduction in penalties, an experienced attorney can help you avoid or minimize a DUI conviction and the associated financial fallout.
