When determining the price of your auto insurance premium, the most important factor is your driving record. It can be more difficult to get affordable auto insurance if you have a driving under the Influence/while intoxicated (DUI/DWI).
Ohio drivers with a DUI can expect to pay more for their car insurance than those without.
What does a DUI do to your insurance rates?
The state where the DUI conviction occurred will have a significant impact on your insurance rates. Ohio has a higher DUI penalty than the national average. Ohio drivers can expect to see their insurance premiums rise by 111% after one DUI.
Average DUI rates for the United States vs. their respective states
| Pre-DUI | After DUI | Percentage increase | |
|---|---|---|---|
| National | $1,674 | $3,336 | 99% |
| Ohio | $1,034 | $2,188 | 111% |
What is the cost of insurance for a DUI in Ohio
Insurance costs for DUI victims in Ohio vary depending on which insurance company they choose. High-risk drivers who have been convicted of DUI will not be covered by all insurance companies. However, some will. Each carrier offers a different minimum coverage rate with a DUI conviction. They also offer their own discounts that eligible drivers can use in order to lower their premium. Below is a table that shows the prices of auto insurance companies in Ohio before and after a DUI conviction.
Ohio provider rates for minimum coverage before and after DUI
| Provider | Average minimum coverage rate | DUI coverage minimum rate |
|---|---|---|
| Allstate | $357 | $1,009 |
| American Family | $388 | $408 |
| Auto-Owners | $325 | $725 |
| Celina | $329 | $700 |
| Central | $446 | $1,103 |
| Donegal | $474 | $2,445 |
| Erie | $259 | $420 |
| Farmers | $357 | $529 |
| Frankenmuth | $302 | $488 |
| Geico | $306 | $462 |
| Hastings Mutual | $292 | $1,288 |
| MetLife | $539 | $1,308 |
| Motorists | $295 | $894 |
| Progressive | $357 | $391 |
| State Farm | $288 | $457 |
| USAA | $247 | $385 |
| Westfield | $337 | $754 |
Ohio provider rates for minimum coverage before and after DUI
| Provider | Before DUI, average full coverage rate | Full coverage with DUI |
|---|---|---|
| Allstate | $523 | $2,824 |
| American Family | $343 | $949 |
| Auto-Owners | $312 | $2,006 |
| Celina | $272 | $2,579 |
| Central | $508 | $3,629 |
| Donegal | $382 | $9,105 |
| Erie | $543 | $1,448 |
| Farmers | $423 | $1,350 |
| Frankenmuth | $431 | $2,111 |
| Geico | $571 | $1,334 |
| Hastings Mutual | $666 | $2,584 |
| MetLife | $325 | $3,202 |
| Motorists | $304 | $3,411 |
| Progressive | $1,163 | |
| State Farm | $1,363 | |
| USAA | $1,217 | |
| Westfield | $2,309 |
Other Ohio DUI penalties
A DUI conviction in Ohio is known as “operating the vehicle under the influence” (OVI). It applies to drivers whose blood alcohol content (BAC), is 0.08 or higher. Drivers who are convicted of DUI will be subject to additional penalties. Ohio’s DUI penalties are some of the harshest in the United States. Here are some things drivers should know after getting a DUI in Ohio.
| Frequency of offense | Penalty |
|---|---|
| First offense | Prison sentences of three days up to six months Fines from $375 to $1,075 Suspend your license for one-three years |
| Second offense | From 10 days to six month imprisonment Fines from $525 to $1,625 Suspend your license for one-to seven years |
| Third offense | 30-days to one year imprisonment Fines from $850 to $2,750 Suspend your license for two to twelve years |
Drivers may also be subject to penalties and receive new yellow license plates that indicate restricted driving privileges. Drivers may also be required to install an interlock device in their vehicle. Drivers with BAC levels above 0.17% will be charged with an aggravated OVI, which can lead to harsher penalties.
Questions frequently asked
What length of time does a DUI stay on your Ohio record?
Ohio law states that you cannot erase an OVI conviction. These convictions will therefore remain on your record indefinitely. The Driver Abstracts used by insurance companies to assess risk are only valid for three years. Therefore, you will be able to get lower rates after this period.
Which insurance company is best for Ohio DUI-insured drivers?
Your specific needs will determine which insurance company is best. Many Ohio insurance companies are willing to offer coverage for high-risk drivers who have a DUI conviction. You should shop around for the best coverage, discounts and financial strength to suit your needs.
Is your Ohio DUI conviction a reason for your Ohio license being suspended?
Yes, once you are arrested for drunk driving suspicion, an automatic, instant administrative license suspension will be issued. Your mandatory sentencing for a conviction in court will likely include an additional suspension of your license.