This guest post is written by Stacy Aspen. Stacy is a licensed attorney with 31 years experience in family law. She has been a legal writer since 2008 providing articles, research papers, briefs and motions as well as web copy and blog posts. She is not associated with Katz and Phillips, PA but can recommend their expertise to those looking for an Orlando DUI Lawyer.
Getting a DUI in Florida brings lots of consequences with it—a conviction which could be a felony, possible jail time, probation, steep fines, a possible Ignition Interlock Device (IID), DUI classes, and possible community service. Much of this depends on whether this is your first conviction or whether you’ve had a DUI conviction previously. The IID costs a lot of money, as you are the one responsible for the installation fees, monthly maintenance fees, and other fees associated with the use of it. The fees for insurance are also going to go up. In sum, you are going to need a lot of money if you have had a DUI.
Insurance Rates and a DUI
After getting a DUI in Florida, you can expect the amount of required insurance to increase. That is because you are now a higher risk to the insurance company. Your coverage for liability, bodily harm, and other types of coverage can increase dramatically because of your new status as a high-risk driver.
Obtaining insurance after a DUI conviction may not be so easy either. It is possible for some companies to deny you coverage. You should consult an Orlando DUI attorney for advice regarding insurance if you get a DUI. The Orlando attorneys know all aspects of DUIs and its effects. Consult them for more information.
However, one thing you can expect is that even if your current policy were to remain in effect—if it’s high enough to meet the requirements—your rates will go up. That is a given. You’re also likely to lose your license after your DUI if you fail to pay your insurance.
Insurance is mandatory in the State of Florida. Florida is listed as the state with the highest premium increases after a DUI. You will now be required to maintain coverage of $300,000.00. Not only will this cost more if it’s higher than your usual policy, but the insurance companies will undoubtedly charge you much more because of your high risk status. You will have to keep this higher amount policy in place for at least three years unless a court rules otherwise.
You should expect a Florida post-DUI policy to be cost-prohibitive. It’s going to cost you plenty. You may want to check around to get the best rate. Surprisingly, there may be a big difference in rates, so check different companies. You’re going to pay for your DUI, but you can do some comparison shopping. Consult with an attorney for advice about where to obtain insurance coverage or about any other issues you have concerning insurance after a DUI.