Apart from the criminal penalties that you could face for a DWI conviction in Texas, it is also important to consider the ramifications that a drunk driving conviction could have on your auto insurance policy. Since your driver’s license will generally be suspended upon your arrest, there are certain measures that you must take to get it back. Typically, this includes filing an SR-22 insurance form with the Texas Department of Public Safety. This is a certificate that must be issued by your auto insurance company, as it will prove that you have obtained at least the minimum amount of auto liability coverage for your vehicle. If you cancel the policy or fail to make the required payments, the insurance company will notify the Texas DPS—who may then suspend your driving privileges and/or vehicle registration.
It is also important to note that the insurance company may raise your insurance premiums after a DWI conviction if they consider you to be a “high risk” driver. In some cases, your auto insurance rates may double or even triple in cost. If your insurance company does not offer SR-22 insurance policies, they may also cancel or choose not to renew your current policy—which means that you may need to shop around for another insurance provider. If and when you find another company that offers SR-22 insurance, you can count on your rates being higher, as well, since you would also have a cancellation on your claims history. For this reason, it may be in your best interests to fight a DWI conviction while there is still time. Contact the Fort Worth criminal lawyer at our firm to find out what steps you can take.
Our Fort Worth DWI defense attorney is available 24/7 – call today at (817) 756-1817 for a free initial consultation or submit a free case evaluation form online.