How Will a Florida DUI Affect My Car Insurance?

If you’re pulled over for driving under the influence, you’re likely worried about the potential penalties. You may already know that a DUI conviction could result in fines, a suspended license, or even jail time. Unfortunately, the penalties don’t stop there. 

You might also be wondering how a Florida DUI will affect your car insurance in the long term. A DUI can have a major negative impact on your insurance rates, but that’s only if you’re convicted.

You can avoid thousands of dollars in increased insurance premiums by beating your DUI charge. That’s why it’s so helpful to have a qualified Tampa DUI lawyer from Hersem Law fighting for you. 

FR-44 Insurance Certificate

If you are convicted of a DUI, your auto insurance is likely to increase. That’s because Florida Statute 324.023 requires anyone convicted of DUI to carry certain minimum insurance coverage for three years after the conviction. 

To prove that you have the proper coverage in place, your insurance  company will file an FR-44 certificate with the DMV in Tallahassee. This states that you have bodily injury insurance coverage in the amount of $100,000 per individual and $300,000 per accident, as well as property damage coverage in the amount of $50,000 per accident.  This policy must be non-cancelable, which means you must pay for it every six months in advance of the policy taking effect. 

If you already have a policy that provides the amount of coverage indicated above, you might see an increase in your monthly rates, but it might not be tremendous. If you don’t already have such a policy, your auto insurance rates may double or even triple. 

One of the most important things an experienced attorney at Hersem Law can do for you is fight to get your case dismissed or reduced. In either case, the FR-44 requirement would no longer be a part of your sentence.

Don’t Let a DUI Blow Up Your Insurance Costs 

How will a Florida DUI affect your car insurance? That depends on whether you’re convicted. If you team up with our firm and beat your charge, the outcome with your insurance is going to be a lot better than if you’re convicted of the DUI.

At Hersem Law, we understand how to navigate the complex Florida legal system and get your DUI charge dismissed or reduced. To schedule a free strategy session, reach out by calling 813-251-7291 or filling out the online contact form below.