How Does a DUI Affect Car Insurance in Colorado?

Driving under the influence (DUI) can have lasting effects on various aspects of life, including car insurance. However, DUI laws and car insurance repercussions are highly relative to the city and state in which a high-risk driver resides. Understanding how DUIs impact your insurance is crucial if you face such charges in Colorado. This guide explores how a DUI affects car insurance and provides steps for Colorado drivers to manage their coverage effectively.

DUID Charges in Colorado

First, it is important to understand Colorado’s laws regarding driving under the influence of drugs (DUID). DUID is an umbrella term that refers to Colorado’s laws on driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while ability impaired (DWAI). Colorado has one of the most unique DWAI laws because it is the only state that allows for permissible inference for THC-impaired driving. Let’s delve deeper into how Colorado defines DUI and DWAI charges.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

In Colorado, a driver can receive a DUI if they are operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 or higher. No additional evidence of impairment, such as blatantly disregarding traffic laws, is necessary if a breathalyzer reading is or exceeds 0.08.

If a driver’s BAC exceeds 0.15, they can expect harsher legal punishments similar to those for a repeat offender. Drivers can also be charged with DUIs if a blood test shows 5 ng/100ml of recreational or medicinal marijuana.

Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI)

A Colorado driver could receive a DWAI if their BAC is below 0.08 but exceeds 0.05. However, the court must prove that the driver was operating their vehicle unsafely to be found guilty. This is a lesser charge than a DUI and has less severe legal punishments.

Penalties for DUI on Car Insurance

Besides legal punishments, a DUI or DWAI charge can significantly affect your auto insurance for several years after your arrest. Here are five ways a DUI affects car insurance in Colorado.

Driving Record

Traffic violations, such as DUIs, will show up on your driving record, and insurance companies will consider you a high-risk driver. In Colorado, a DUI will remain on your criminal record permanently and on your record with the Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles for 10 years. As a result, many insurers may increase your premiums significantly or refuse to offer standard policies altogether. This can create financial strain and complicate your ability to secure necessary coverage.

Policy Cancelation

A DUI conviction in Colorado can lead to the cancellation of your insurance policy. Insurers view a DUI as a major risk factor, often prompting them to reassess your coverage. If your policy is canceled, finding a new provider may become challenging, as many companies are hesitant to insure high-risk drivers. This can leave you without adequate coverage and higher premiums when you find a new policy.

Limited High-Risk Providers

After a DUI, your insurance options may become severely limited. Many insurers prefer not to work with high-risk drivers, which can restrict your choices. You may find that only a handful of companies are willing to provide coverage, often at much higher rates. In such situations, insurers specializing in high-risk policies may be your only viable option, making it essential to shop around for the best terms available.

Insurance Rate

As we mentioned, the classification as a high-risk driver from a DUI charge often leads to significantly higher insurance rates. In Colorado, high-risk drivers can expect their insurance premiums to increase between 50 and 80 percent. This increase in premiums reflects the heightened risk perceived by insurance companies. The higher cost can be a significant financial burden on individuals who need to adjust their budgets or coverages to afford essential living expenses.

SR-22 Requirement

In Colorado, a DUI conviction typically necessitates filing an SR-22 form, which is a certificate of financial responsibility. This form proves that you carry the minimum required insurance coverage and is often mandated for reinstating a suspended driver’s license. You must maintain SR-22 insurance for a specified period, often at least three years, which can add to your premiums. Failing to keep this certification can lead to further penalties and complications in regaining your driving privileges.

Other Factors That Affect Car Insurance

A DUI charge alone is not the only factor impacting auto insurance for a high-risk driver. Here are additional elements affecting your insurance costs.

Driving Offense Severity

The specific circumstances of your DUI, such as BAC levels and whether any accidents occurred, play a role in determining your insurance premiums. More severe offenses often result in higher premiums due to the increased risk they represent to insurers. Additionally, repeat DUI offenses significantly escalate your risk profile, resulting in substantially higher premiums.

History of Other Offenses

Insurance companies evaluate your entire driving record, not just recent incidents like a DUI, when calculating your rates. Previous offenses, from speeding tickets to reckless driving, can compound your risk profile and increase premiums.

Age

Younger drivers typically face higher insurance premiums due to their lack of experience behind the wheel. Furthermore, younger drivers typically experience more significant increases in car insurance costs following a DUI conviction than older drivers do.

Location

Your geographical location has a significant impact on your car insurance costs. Insurers consider local crime rates, weather conditions, and population density when setting rates. Additionally, state laws and regulations impact how insurance rates are adjusted following a DUI.

Insurance Company

Not all insurance companies evaluate risk in the same way, and this can affect your premiums. For instance, some insurers specialize in providing coverage for high-risk drivers and may offer more competitive rates. Comparing quotes from various companies is essential for finding the best deal and can result in considerable savings.

Coverage Amount

The amount of coverage you choose directly influences your insurance premiums. It’s important to find a balance between adequate coverage to protect your assets and affordability to keep your monthly payments manageable. Regularly reviewing your coverage needs can help you make adjustments that suit your financial situation, especially after a DUI incident.

Affordable SR-22 Insurance in Colorado

Finding cheap SR-22 insurance in Colorado may be challenging, but it is not impossible. Working with agents specializing in high-risk policies is beneficial, as they can guide you to the best options available. Contact Serenity Group if you are a high-risk driver looking for affordable, tailored coverage in Colorado.