DUI Auto Insurance Rates in Illinois
Reader’s Question:
A friend of mine here in Illinois has been caught driving under the influence one Friday night. I’m a little curious. Is he going to lose his car insurance policy, or will the premiums just go up after a DUI?
David
Chicago, IL
When it comes to driving, your friend’s foremost problem is that he is going to lose his driver’s license. But the time will come when he will be able to drive again. So, what will happen to his car insurance coverage then? There are two possibilities: Either his car insurance policy will be canceled, or its premium will skyrocket.
People who have records of drinking and driving are considered high risks by car insurance companies. Many of them won’t even consider selling a car insurance policy to one who has a DUI record. Those who do might require a certificate of financial responsibility or SR22. This certificate gives the Secretary of State the authority to suspend the insurance policy when it is canceled or when it has expired. One may get an SR-22 from an insurance company authorized to release it.
This will be sent to the Secretary of State and will be used to monitor the car insurance coverage of drivers with problematic records. The State of Illinois gives drivers two other options. One may deposit cash in the amount of $55,000 to the State Treasury instead of obtaining an SR-22. He may also file a surety or real estate bond which must be approved by a court.
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