A DUI/DWI conviction, driver’s license suspension or revocation, or related accident or traffic violation may significantly increase a driver’s insurance rate (by an average of 80%)—and two or more DUI/DWI convictions may make it difficult for a driver to acquire the insurance necessary to operate a vehicle.
In Florida, a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) conviction can have a substantial impact on a driver's insurance rates. Florida law requires that any driver convicted of a DUI must carry increased levels of car insurance, specifically in the form of an FR-44 certificate, which is similar to the SR-22 but requires higher liability limits. This certificate must be maintained for three years from the date of reinstatement after a DUI conviction. As a result, insurance providers may increase premiums by an average of 80% or more, reflecting the higher risk associated with insuring a driver with a DUI conviction. Multiple DUI/DWI convictions can further exacerbate the situation, leading to even higher premiums, and in some cases, drivers may find it challenging to obtain insurance at all. Insurers may consider such drivers to be high-risk, and some companies may refuse to provide coverage. Additionally, Florida law mandates a driver's license suspension for DUI convictions, which can range from 180 days to permanent revocation, depending on the number of offenses and the severity of the incident. This suspension or revocation can also contribute to increased insurance rates once the driver is eligible to be re-licensed.