Study profiles Colorado DUI auto insurance premium hikes
The upcoming college semester is almost here. Many University of Colorado students are packing and getting ready to start a new year on campus. For many schools, the first week is known as “welcome week,” a back-to-school celebration time that often involves parties, barbeques-and of course-alcohol.
Most students know the basic repercussions of receiving an MIP or DUI. Drivers pulled over and charged with DUI or DWAI in the state of Colorado could pay up to $1500 in fines and spend up to 1 year in jail, depending on the circumstances.
But many may not understand the more indirect consequences of a drunk driving conviction-like an increase in car insurance rates.
NerdWallet, an online resource that provides insurance information, recently profiled a story about auto insurance rates for those with DUIs throughout areas of the country. The results were remarkable.
Specific data
After examining information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, NerdWallet put together a list of car insurance rates in the top 150 largest U.S. cities. The data revealed the following:
On average, drivers in the U.S. who receive a DUI can expect their car insurance premiums to increase by 75 percent. However, drivers in certain areas of the country, like the state of California, can expect a much higher hike.
In San Bernardino, California, for instance, a driver with a DUI conviction is likely to see a 135 percent rise in their auto insurance rates. Drivers in Lubbock, Texas, and Knoxville, Tennessee, will probably see an average rate increase of around 50 percent. Alternately, drivers can expect their rates to rise by only 3.75 percent in Omaha, Nebraska.
But what about Colorado?
Several cities within the state of Colorado were among the list of cities profiled in the investigation.
DUI insurance rate hikes in Colorado
In both Denver and Aurora, Colorado, drivers convicted of a DUI will likely see an average car insurance rate increase of 63 percent. In Colorado Springs, drivers can expect a premium hike of 64 percent.
Other penalties
The information relating to auto insurance premiums for DUI offenses is astonishing. However, car insurance rate hikes are just one of many indirect consequences of a DUI.
A drunk driving conviction can have an effect on employment opportunities, scholarships, and rental opportunities-factors important to many college students.
The advocacy of a DUI attorney
If you are facing a DUI or any other alcohol related charge, seeking the help of a criminal defense attorney is advised. A lawyer can explain the law and potential repercussions as they pertain to your circumstance as well as help to mitigate future repercussions stemming from the charge.