DUI Insurance

Reader’s Question:

My mom and sister had an argument. My sister’s boyfriend was caught driving while drunk and my mom commented that it’s impossible for my sister’s boyfriend to renew his car insurance policy. My sister argues that there are companies that offer DUI insurance. Who’s right?

Phoebe

Chicago, IL

I can’t blame your mom for her naiveté because probably, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs doesn’t exist in your family’s vocabulary. Forgive your mom for her being misinformed, but yes, there’s DUI insurance. Your sister was right that there are insurance companies willing to insure drivers who committed a DUI offense although the choices will be limited. Often, they’re not the original insurers of the violators prior to the DUI. But, yes, these companies exist.

Once the driver with a DUI record has decided what company to get his DUI insurance from, the chosen car insurance company will have to file a sr22 form to the state to inform that the offender has an active minimum state required insurance. It is the insurance company’s responsibility to do that.

Truth be told, Phoebe, the problem here isn’t really getting a DUI insurance: it’s more of getting the driver’s license back after a DUI, something that will give your sister’s boyfriend a real headache.

Meanwhile, be nice when correcting your mom about DUI insurance. Kudos to her (and probably your dad) for raising kids who don’t drink and drive.