Trying to get insurance after a DWI can be tricky. Sometimes the insurance company that's currently covering you may not know about the offense and therefore will not update their records accordingly. If this occurs then nothing changes for you.
However, more and more drivers found guilty of DWI will have to file a SR-22 form with their insurance companies. This form ensures that the insurance company is aware of the DWI and updates the driver's rates and coverage accordingly. This form proves to the Division of Motor Vehicles that you do indeed carry liability insurance and removes your license suspension. It also requires your insurance company to notify your state's DMV if they cancel your policy for any reason.
Sometimes when a driver is found guilty of a DWI, the insurance company is alerted not long after. When this occurs, the driver is often facing a rather large rate hike. But then again, a rate increase could be the least of your troubles. You could be facing non-renewal or cancellation of your plan. Fortunately there are many insurance brokers who are experts at placing convicted drivers on insurance plans that are right for them.
The first and probably most important step is to contact your lawyer. He or she will review your insurance plan and see what the insurance company can or cannot do in terms of their agreement with you. Since insurance is mandatory, even if your company cancels your plan you will be able to find coverage through another company that's geared toward higher risk drivers.
Getting or keeping insurance after a DWI can be difficult, but if you contact your lawyer and find out the facts about your plan, you'll be able to move forward sooner.
