Driving Under the Influence (DUI) charges can be incredibly expensive and have drastic impacts on numerous aspects of an individual’s life. Between disruptions in employment, potentially losing the ability to drive, and all of the costly court fees and classes to pay for, restructuring your life after being charged can seem overwhelming.

One aspect that’s often overlooked with DUI charges is the effect it has on your auto insurance. Since having car insurance is a requirement for legally driving in Georgia, handling your policy quickly after being convicted should be a priority. Luckily, there are ways to obtain auto insurance in Mount Zion, GA, following a DUI conviction, and this helpful guide will outline how to do it.

What to expect with your Mount Zion, GA, auto insurance after a DUI.

The first thing you should do is understand exactly how a DUI impacts your auto insurance in Mount Zion, GA. Once your insurance provider is alerted of the offense, one of two things are likely to happen. They can either cancel your policy as soon as they find out and deny you any renewals or your rates will increase substantially. This occurs because insurance providers base their rates on the amount of risk they deem you to be, and DUI charges label you as a high-risk driver.

In addition to losing your insurance coverage or facing more expensive premiums, you’ll also probably have to file an SR-22 form with the state. This is a certificate that proves to the government that a driver convicted of a DUI has car insurance that meets Georgia’s minimum liability coverage requirements. Without one, you can’t legally drive until one is filed. So if you are dropped from your current policy or can’t afford the increased rates, you’ll need to find another solution.

How to shop for affordable auto insurance in Mount Zion, GA, after a DUI.

If you do need to find a new auto insurance policy, it’s best to start shopping right away. That way, you’ll have more time to compare rates before your current policy is canceled or the rates skyrocket. When you are talking to new providers, always be honest and disclose the fact that you have a DUI conviction. They will find out at some point, and letting them know upfront will eliminate further headaches down the road.

To get the best rate possible, you’ll need to get multiple quotes from different providers. It can be time-consuming, but it can save you money in the long run. To simplify this process, you can also use a car insurance comparison tool (NerdWallet has a fantastic one that’s free to use). Once you find the best policy for you, it’s important that you avoid any other traffic violations to maintain the rates, and check again in three years after getting the DUI when rates will likely be lower once again.

For individuals who are denied coverage after a DUI, one final option is to check with the Georgia government. They offer their Georgia Automobile Insurance Plan to drivers who are considered too high-risk to obtain any other type of insurance policy. It’s not the best or most affordable coverage, but it’ll allow you to get back on the road again legally.

Are you searching for Mount Zion, GA, auto insurance?

If you’ve been convicted of a DUI, then chances are you’re finding it difficult to find an affordable option that also provides the coverage you need. That’s where the team here at Stellar Insurance can help.

We are a family company that specializes in helping individuals who have been denied coverage from the major carriers find a policy that works for their unique needs. To see what kind of plans you qualify for, start your free quote online, or you can talk to an agent directly with our convenient communications portal.