According to a recent report from the Motley Fool, the average annual cost of motor insurance in Minnesota is now $2,909. Though this is slightly less than the national average, it’s still a sizable amount of money. 

The last thing you want is something making your motor insurance rates even higher; unfortunately, if you pick up a DWI conviction, it will probably drive up your premium. In some cases, a DWI can make it difficult to get car insurance coverage at all. 

Getting Motor Insurance After a DWI 

So, you’ve just received a DWI conviction. What happens to your insurance rates?

Insurance works by analyzing the accident risk you pose as a driver and giving you a premium on this basis; the higher a risk you are, the bigger your premium will be. If you get caught driving while impaired, insurance companies will see you as a riskier prospect, and the cost of your premiums will increase. 

So, after a conviction for drunk driving, you can expect to see a significant jump in your rates when you next renew your policy. You may be able to limit the cost increase by shopping around or negotiating with your insurer, but you’re almost certain to end up paying more. 

The extent of the rate increase you’ll face will depend on a number of factors, including your:

• Driving record: Any accidents, traffic violations, or other driving-related incidents will increase your premium alongside your DWI.
• Age: Younger drivers, especially those under 25, are considered higher-risk due to their lack of driving experience.
• Gender: Unlike other states, Minnesota allows insurers to discriminate on the basis of gender when setting premiums. When it comes to car insurance, men (particularly young men) are often seen as higher-risk, and so end up paying more. 
• Vehicle type: The make, model, and age of your vehicle can all affect premiums. High-performance or luxury vehicles typically cost more to insure.
• Vehicle usage: The more you use your vehicle, the higher your monthly premiums are likely to be. 

How Long Do DWI Convictions Impact Insurance Premiums?

The length of time it will take for a DWI conviction to stop affecting your insurance premiums will vary depending on the approach of the insurance company you choose to buy from. On average, DWI-related rate increases stay in place for 3-5 years. 

It’s important to remember, though, that a DWI conviction remains on your record indefinitely (unless you get it expunged). While years of clean driving will reduce its impact on your insurance costs, insurers will still be able to see it and take it into account as long as it remains on your record.

What If I Can’t Get Insurance?

Insurance companies aren’t legally obliged to offer you coverage. If you pick up a drunk driving conviction, you may find it difficult to get insurance, particularly if it’s a repeat conviction or an aggravated offense. 

Car insurance is mandatory in Minnesota, so you won’t be legally able to drive without a valid policy. 

If your previous insurer is unwilling to work with you following a DWI conviction, shop around. Chances are you’ll be able to find a company who will sell you a policy, even if it costs more than what you were paying previously. There are some companies who specialize in covering higher-risk drivers. 

Speak With a Minnesota DWI Lawyer Today

The implications of a DWI conviction unfortunately go beyond the sentence you receive from the court. Your insurance premium is likely to increase significantly after you’re convicted. 

To give yourself the best possible chance of avoiding this outcome, you should hire a Minnesota DWI lawyer. We can examine your case to make sure you’ve been treated fairly and do our best to secure a good outcome for you. 

Contact us today to schedule a consultation!