As you might expect, being arrested and charged with driving under the influence (DUI) can bring embarrassment, fear, and anxiety about what might happen as a result. Many of those arrested fail to consider the insurance angle of their arrest but it can cause some untold problems. Read on to find out what to expect from your auto insurance coverage after a DUI.

Will Your Insurer Know?

Most people are covered by an existing plan, and the insurer may not necessarily know about the DUI arrest right away. In most cases, policyholders are not required to report the arrest to the insurer; however, that doesn't mean they won't eventuality come to learn of your arrest. It's important to keep in mind that a DUI arrest may not lead to a DUI conviction. It's on you to do everything possible to prevent things from getting that far. As soon as you are arrested, speak to a criminal law attorney who practices DUI law. There is much that can be done to fight your charges and you would be foolish not to try.

Once the Insurer Knows

Every once in a while, your insurer will check your driving record by running your driver's license. For some policyholders, that may come when they renew your policy every year or six months or so. Often, that is when they will find out about your DUI arrest. Unfortunately, your DUI arrest is inextricably connected to the records of the department of motor vehicles (DMV) in your state, and things are tracked using your drivers' license. If your license has been suspended due to the arrest, the insurer is likely to find out about it sooner or later. You must have a valid drivers' license to be covered under auto insurance.

Hardship Driving Privileges

Some DUI defendants may be issued what is known as a hardship license. This is a special, temporary license that is very limited in how it can be used. You might only be able to drive to certain locations, like work, and during certain hours and on certain days. If you have not been convicted of DUI, you may not necessarily have your driver's license revoked or suspended, or you might be provided with a hardship license. If so, you might find you can drive and be insured, but that your rates are now sky high as a result of the arrest.

Auto insurance problems are but one of many those arrested and convicted of DUI will face. Speak to a criminal law attorney for help in avoiding the cascading effect of a DUI conviction. For more information about criminal law, contact a local law office.

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