Reader’s Question:

My sister has a DUI conviction here in Texas. Part of her concern is her auto insurance. What will happen to her car insurance and does she have to disclose her DUI conviction to her insurance company?

Sandy

Abilene, TX

The insurance company would find out about your sister’s DUI conviction in Texas sooner or later. If she is ready to get her license back, she needs to get an SR22 form. This is a certificate of insurance that shows the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) proof of insurance. SR22 is a motor vehicle liability insurance which requires the insurance company to certify coverage to DPS. Her insurance company must notify DPS anytime the policy is cancelled, terminated or lapses.

Having a DUI charge could prompt any insurance company to increase the premium rates. From an insurance company’s perspective, your sister has a higher probability of being in another incident of DUI. Worse thing could happen because due to a much higher risk that the insurance company would have to take, they may simply opt to completely drop her insurance.

In case this happens, your sister can avail of the policies with the lowest rates by first looking around. She can shop online for the different rates and coverage offered, and see which one will serve her needs the best.

Tags: insurance, SR22 insurance