If you’ve been arrested for driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Texas, you may be wondering how long the consequences of such an offense will last. The truth is that a DWI can have far-reaching impacts on your life—from the legal system to your insurance premiums. In this article, we’ll take a look at how long a DWI conviction can affect your insurance rates in Texas. We’ll also explore what you can do to minimize the damage and get back on track financially. Read on to learn more about DWI and its impact on insurance in Texas.
How long does a DWI stay on your record in Texas?
In Texas, a DWI conviction will remain on your driving record for life. However, the impact of a DWI on your insurance rates will lessen over time. After five years, the impact of a DWI will be similar to that of a speeding ticket.
How much will your insurance rates increase after a DWI in Texas?
In the state of Texas, a DWI offense will result in a mandatory surcharge of $1,000 per year for three years to your auto insurance rates. In addition, your insurance company may also choose to increase your rates after a DWI conviction. The amount of the increase will vary depending on the insurer, but it could be as high as 20-30%.
What are some ways to get cheaper car insurance after a DWI in Texas?
There are many ways to get cheaper car insurance after a DWI in Texas. One way is to take a defensive driving course. Another way is to shop around and compare rates from different insurers. You can also get discounts for having certain safety features on your vehicle, such as anti-lock brakes or airbags. Some insurers also offer discounts for completing an alcohol education program.
How to avoid getting a DWI in Texas
If you are caught driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Texas, you can expect to face serious penalties. These can include jail time, fines, and the loss of your driver’s license. In addition, your auto insurance rates will increase significantly.
There are a few things you can do to avoid getting a DWI in Texas:
– Plan ahead and have a designated driver if you know you’ll be drinking.
– Avoid drinking too much alcohol. Know your limit and stick to it.
– If you’ve been drinking, don’t get behind the wheel. Call a taxi or Uber instead.
– If you see someone else who is drunk and about to drive, take their keys away and offer to drive them home yourself.
Conclusion
All in all, it is clear to see that a DWI conviction will have serious implications on your car insurance rates in Texas. Depending on the nature of your crime, you may be subject to a hike in premiums for up to five years. This increases the importance of avoiding any kind of driving offense as much as possible and definitely sets the stakes for making sure you adhere to traffic laws when out and about. If you are ever charged with a DWI or any other similar offense, make sure not to leave anything up to chance; look into an experienced attorney who can help fight for your rights throughout these difficult times.
