New Mexico’s DUI conviction has resulted in a 94% increase in car insurance premiums. This is slightly lower than the national average increase, which is 99%. Drivers convicted of DUI will pay slightly more for car insurance than they did before. Because of a DUI conviction, insurance companies will consider you a high risk driver.
Drinking and driving causes more than 44% billion in damages each year. Understanding the law surrounding DUI and DWI in New Mexico can help you understand how it could impact your insurance premium.
New Mexico DUI laws
If your blood alcohol level (BAC) is more than 0.08, you are considered legally impaired in New Mexico. The threshold for commercial vehicles is 0.06% and those under 21 are 0.02%. If you can’t control your vehicle, it is possible to be convicted for DUI with a lower blood alcohol.
New Mexico’s DUI and DWI penalties vary depending on how serious your offense was and whether it was your first conviction. Most likely, you will face fines and a suspension of your license. You might also be required to complete community service, serve time in jail and install an ignition interlock system. If alcohol is detected on your breath, this device will stop your car from turning on.
What a DUI means for your New Mexico car insurance
The national percentage increase in full coverage car insurance for DUI victims is 99%. The average annual cost of full coverage car insurance in the United States is $1,674 annually. This amount almost doubles after a DUI conviction. The average premium increase in New Mexico is 94%. Although it is less severe than the previous, it is still substantial. New Mexico’s average increase in premiums after a DUI is 94%.
These figures represent the averages for both national and state levels. The cost of insurance before and after a DUI will differ for every driver depending on many factors such as past driving records, age, and the coverages purchased.
After a New Mexico DUI, you can find car insurance
A DUI conviction will increase your insurance premium. However, this does not mean that you are not eligible for any coverage. Your policy will be more costly than before you were convicted of a DUI. However, insurance coverage is usually required to reinstate your license if it was suspended.
It is a great way to find insurance after a DUI. Get quotes from multiple companies. You can then compare coverages, premiums, and third-party ratings to find the best company for you. Below is a list of average premiums for full coverage after a DUI at several insurance companies in New Mexico.
Your insurance company may decide to terminate your policy if you are convicted of DUI. Some insurance companies will not write business for high risk drivers. You will need to look for a new provider if this is the case.
You can also save money on insurance by taking advantage discounts, increasing yourdeductible and changing the type of vehicle you drive. These changes can be made by talking to a licensed agent.
Questions frequently asked
What will a DUI in New Mexico do to my criminal record?
New Mexico has strict laws against drinking and driving. You could face penalties such as a suspension of your license, jail time, or community service if you are found guilty of drinking and driving. An ignition interlock device, which stops your engine turning if you are smelling alcohol, may be required on your vehicle.
After a DUI, do I need SR-22 coverage in New Mexico?
If your license was suspended due to a DUI, an SR-22 form will be required. An SR-22 form is not an insurance policy. It is proof that your insurance company has submitted insurance to the Motor Vehicle Division. This document proves that your coverage is up to date. Typically, you will need to keep an SR-22 form in your file for between three and five years after your DUI conviction.
Do you consider yourself high-risk for a DUI conviction?
Insurance companies consider DUI drivers high-risk drivers. Driving while drunk is dangerous. It can cause serious injury and death to thousands of people each year and damage billions of dollars. Insurance companies charge more for DUI drivers because they are at greater risk of being sued.