Navigating Auto Insurance Options In California After A Dui

California requires all drivers to carry auto insurance, and failure to do so can result in fines, a suspended license, and vehicle impoundment. The state has specific minimum insurance requirements, including $15,000 for injury/death to one person, $30,000 for injury/death to more than one person, and $5,000 for property damage. There are various options for obtaining auto insurance in California, including purchasing a policy directly from an insurance company, using an agent, or working with a broker. When choosing an insurance option, it is essential to consider factors such as coverage, customer service, and cost. Additionally, California offers a Low-Cost Automobile Insurance Program for eligible drivers who cannot afford standard insurance rates.

California's Low-Cost Automobile Insurance Program

The CLCA program offers liability-only coverage with the following policy limits:

• $10,000 of bodily injury or death liability per person
• $20,000 of bodily injury or death liability per accident
• $3,000 property damage liability per accident

Unlike a regular auto insurance policy, the CLCA policy is not very customizable. Comprehensive and collision coverage are not available through this program, and drivers seeking these types of insurance would need to purchase them from a separate provider. However, CLCA policyholders can add the following coverages to their policies for an additional cost of around $43 to $82 per year:

• $1,000 of medical payments coverage per person
• $10,000 of uninsured motorist bodily injury per person
• $20,000 of uninsured motorist bodily injury per accident

To be eligible for the CLCA program, individuals must meet certain criteria:

• Have a valid California driver's license
• Own a vehicle worth no more than $25,000
• Be at least 16 years old (applicants under 18 must be legally emancipated)
• Meet income eligibility requirements, which vary based on household size
• Have a good driving record

The CLCA defines a "good driver" as someone who has held a license for three consecutive years, has no felonies or misdemeanors on their record, and has earned no more than one point on their driving record in the past three years.

The enrollment process for the CLCA program is straightforward and can be done online or by contacting a CLCA agent. The program offers seven payment plans, and there is no broker's fee.

The CLCA program is a valuable option for income-eligible good drivers in California who are struggling to afford standard insurance premiums. By providing affordable coverage, the program helps ensure that all Californians can meet the state's financial responsibility laws and protect themselves, their friends, family, and other drivers on the road.

Required insurance coverage types

California law requires drivers to carry at least the following auto insurance coverages:

• Bodily injury liability coverage: $15,000 per person / $30,000 per accident minimum
• Property damage liability coverage: $5,000 minimum
• Uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage: $15,000 per person / $30,000 per accident minimum
• Uninsured motorist property damage coverage: $3,500 minimum

While these are the minimum coverages California requires you to have, everyone's insurance needs are unique.

Bodily injury liability insurance covers the other party's medical expenses if the accident is deemed your fault. In California, you'll need bodily injury coverage of at least $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident.

Property damage liability insurance pays to repair the other party's vehicle, up to $5,000 per accident, if you're at fault.

Uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage pays for your own medical bills if you're hit by a driver who either doesn't have enough coverage or lacks it altogether.

Uninsured motorist property damage coverage pays for the damage to your car from an accident with an uninsured driver who is at fault. The limit is $3,500. This only pays if the uninsured driver is identified. You may not need it if you have collision coverage.

In addition to the above, there are other coverage options commonly available for purchase:

• Uninsured motorist coverage: This covers you if you are in an accident with a driver who does not have any liability insurance. The insurance company must offer you this coverage. If you choose not to buy it, you must sign a form, called a waiver, stating that you were offered the coverage and turned it down.
• Underinsured motorist coverage: This covers you if you are in an accident with a driver who does not have enough insurance.
• Medical payments coverage: This covers the cost of medical expenses if you or your passengers are injured. This coverage can pay for immediate medical care, no matter who is at fault. The minimum limit you can buy is $1,000 for each person injured. You can ask for higher limits of coverage.
• Physical damage coverages (comprehensive and collision): Collision covers damage to your car caused by physical contact with another vehicle or an object, such as a tree, rock, guardrail, or building. Comprehensive covers damage to your car caused by something other than a collision, such as fire, theft, vandalism, windstorm, flood, falling objects, etc. It does not cover mechanical breakdown, normal wear and tear, or maintenance. Collision and comprehensive coverage provide compensation based on the market value of your car.
• Rental reimbursement: You can buy rental reimbursement insurance for renting a car when your own car is being repaired after a covered accident.
• Towing and road service: You can choose to buy these coverages. They are not required.

Insurance after a DUI

If you have a DUI on your record, you may be wondering how this will impact your ability to get car insurance in California. Here is some information to guide you through the process and help you understand your options.

Understanding DUI Consequences in California

In California, driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offence that can result in fines, suspension of your driver's license, and even impoundment of your vehicle. These consequences are separate from any penalties imposed by the court system following a DUI conviction. It is important to understand and comply with these requirements to restore your driving privileges and maintain compliance with the law.

Obtaining Car Insurance After a DUI

After a DUI, you may find it challenging to obtain car insurance, and the cost of insurance is likely to increase significantly. Here are some key points to consider:

• Expect Higher Premiums: A DUI will typically result in higher insurance rates. The exact increase will depend on various factors, including your age, driving history, and the insurance company's policies. In California, the average cost of full-coverage insurance after a DUI is approximately $437 per month, nearly three times higher than the rate for drivers with a clean record.
• Shop Around for Insurance: Not all insurance companies will treat a DUI in the same way. It is worth comparing rates and policies from multiple providers to find the best option for your circumstances. Some companies, such as Mercury Insurance, offer more affordable rates for drivers with a DUI on their record.
• Consider SR-22 Insurance: Following a DUI, you may be required to obtain SR-22 insurance. This is a certification that verifies you have the minimum required liability coverage. The SR-22 filing typically carries an additional cost, ranging from $15 to $50.
• Improve Your Driving Record: Over time, you can work on improving your driving record by avoiding further violations and demonstrating safe driving behaviour. This will help lower your insurance rates in the long run.
• Take Advantage of Discounts: Even with a DUI on your record, you may still be eligible for certain insurance discounts. For example, if you are a student with good grades or a homeowner, you may qualify for discounted rates.
• Consider a Higher Deductible: Opting for a higher deductible can lower your insurance premium. However, keep in mind that this means you will have to pay more out of pocket if you need to make a claim.
• Review Your Coverage Needs: Evaluate your current coverage and consider whether you need all the extras. You may be able to reduce your premium by removing unnecessary add-ons or adjusting your coverage limits.
• Seek Specialist Insurance Providers: There are insurance companies that specialise in providing coverage for high-risk drivers, including those with a DUI on their record. They may be able to offer more tailored policies and competitive rates.

Maintaining Compliance and Restoring Your Record

After a DUI, it is crucial to maintain compliance with all legal requirements and take steps to restore your driving record:

• Comply with Court Orders: Follow any court-ordered requirements, such as attending educational programmes or installing an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. Failure to comply can result in further penalties and prolong the impact of the DUI on your insurance rates.
• Maintain Continuous Insurance Coverage: Ensure that you maintain continuous car insurance coverage, even if it is more expensive after a DUI. Gaps in insurance coverage can lead to additional penalties and may further complicate the process of restoring your driving record.
• Consider a Defensive Driving Course: Enrolling in a defensive driving course can demonstrate your commitment to safe driving. Some insurance companies may even offer discounts for completing such courses.
• Review Your Driving Record Regularly: Periodically review your driving record to ensure that it accurately reflects your current status. If you notice any discrepancies or outdated information, take the necessary steps to have them corrected.

Seeking Professional Assistance

Navigating the insurance landscape after a DUI can be challenging. Consider seeking assistance from professionals who can guide you through the process:

• Insurance Brokers: Licensed insurance brokers can help you compare policies, find the best rates, and understand the fine print. They often have access to a wide range of insurance providers, including those specialising in high-risk drivers.
• Financial Advisors: A financial advisor can help you assess your financial situation and determine how much insurance coverage you truly need. They can also provide guidance on saving money and improving your financial standing, which can positively impact your insurance rates.
• Legal Professionals: If you are facing legal consequences due to a DUI, consider consulting a lawyer who specialises in DUI cases. They can help you understand your rights, navigate the legal system, and minimise the long-term impact of the offence.

Remember, while a DUI will impact your insurance rates, there are still options available to obtain coverage and manage your costs. By taking a proactive approach, you can work towards restoring your driving record and securing more affordable insurance in the future.

How to get short-term insurance

If you're looking to get short-term car insurance in California after a DUI, there are a few things you should know. First, insurance companies are not required to provide coverage to drivers with a DUI conviction, and they may deny you coverage altogether. This is because drivers with a DUI are considered high-risk and are more likely to file a claim. Additionally, your insurance rates will increase significantly—by up to 185% in California—and your license will be suspended.

To get short-term insurance after a DUI, you have a few options. You can work with an insurance broker, who can help you find the best coverage options for high-risk drivers. Alternatively, you can apply for liability insurance through the California Automobile Assigned Risk Plan (CAARP). CAARP is a program that matches high-risk drivers with insurance providers who will issue them policies. You can obtain CAARP coverage by calling 1-800-622-0954 or speaking with any auto insurance agent or broker.

It's important to note that you will need to maintain insurance coverage for at least three years after a DUI conviction. During this time, you will be required to have an SR-22 form on file with the California Department of Motor Vehicles. The SR-22 certifies that you have auto liability insurance that meets the state's minimum coverage limits of "15/30/5". This means that your insurance will cover up to $15,000 for the death or bodily injury of one person, $30,000 total for the wrongful death or bodily liability of all people hurt or killed in an accident, and $5,000 for property damage.

While a DUI will make obtaining insurance more difficult and expensive, it is possible to find short-term coverage by working with brokers or through the CAARP program.

Insurance for young drivers

Young drivers often face higher insurance premiums due to their age and lack of driving experience, which can make them more likely to get into accidents. However, there are ways to save on car insurance for young drivers. Here are some tips for getting insurance for young drivers in California:

• Stay on a parent's policy: Young drivers can save money on car insurance by staying on their parent's policy, as long as they have the same primary residence and any vehicle they drive is garaged there.
• Compare quotes from multiple insurance companies: Not all insurance companies will offer the same rates or discounts, so it's important to shop around and compare quotes to find the best deal.
• Look for companies with young driver discounts: Some insurance companies offer discounts specifically for young drivers, such as good student discounts, alumni association discounts, and driver training discounts.
• Consider usage-based insurance: Some companies offer usage-based insurance programs that track driving habits and offer discounts for safe driving.
• Choose a higher deductible: Opting for a higher deductible can lower your insurance premium, but keep in mind that this will also increase your out-of-pocket expenses if you need to make a claim.
• Take advantage of multi-policy and multi-car discounts: If you have multiple cars or policies (such as renters insurance) with the same company, you may be able to get a discount.
• Consider the type of car: Some cars are cheaper to insure than others, so choosing a vehicle that is known to have lower insurance rates can help reduce costs.
• Compare coverage options: Young drivers may not need all the bells and whistles that come with a comprehensive insurance policy. Compare coverage options and choose only what you need to help keep costs down.
• Maintain a good driving record: Avoiding tickets and accidents can help keep insurance rates low.
• Consider insurance when buying a car: The make and model of the car can impact insurance rates, so it's a good idea to get a quote before purchasing a vehicle.
• Ask about discounts for safety features: Insurance companies may offer discounts for cars with safety features such as airbags and anti-theft devices.
• Compare rates regularly: Insurance rates can change over time, so it's a good idea to compare rates from different companies every few years to ensure you're getting the best deal.
• Progressive: Offers a variety of discounts for young drivers, including good student and multi-car discounts. They also have a robust mobile app and online tools.
• Geico: Known for offering cheap insurance for young drivers, especially those with a few years of driving experience. They offer a long list of discounts, including student and military discounts.
• Auto-Owners: Provides several dedicated savings programs for young drivers, including good student and student-away-at-school discounts. They also offer a teen monitoring discount that uses the vehicle's GPS system.
• State Farm: Has a large network of local agents and an exceptional roadside assistance program, which can be helpful for young drivers.
• Nationwide: Offers numerous coverage add-ons, such as roadside assistance and gap insurance, to create personalized policies for young drivers. They also have usage-based programs that can help lower rates.

Frequently asked questions