Auto Insurance Forum

I was recently convicted of a DUI for the first time. I have had a perfect driving record for 53 years. Should I write to my insurance company with an explanation of the circumstances before they learn of the conviction?

Sam, California

Dear Sam,

You may want to explain your DUI conviction only if your insurance company finds out about it. Insurance companies generally check motor vehicle records on their policyholders about every three years, so your DUI conviction might go unnoticed.

However, if your insurance company does notice your DUI, there's no guarantee that it would cancel your policy or raise your insurance rates. Rules vary by insurance company, but insurers say they generally look at a policyholder's total driving record and claims history when considering what penalty, if any, they will assess for a DUI conviction.

For more information, read How a DUI conviction affects your insurance.

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