DUI and SR22 Vermont VT

Reader’s Question:

Would a conviction of DUI lead me to have SR-22? How does this affect my auto insurance policy in Vermont?

Lt. Darwin Godspeed

Burlington, VT

How are you doing, Darwin?

I must say in most instances, you will get your DUI in or close to the county in which you reside. Try to check with Vermont law on DUI if you will be asked by the court to file an SR-22 form because some states may not require you to file an SR-22.

If you don’t inform the insurance company or the insurance company doesn’t immediately find out about the DUI conviction then your rates might remain as it is. However, if your insurance policy in Vermont lapses, then that’s the time you will have trouble with higher premium rates. Even if you are not required to file SR-22, your DUI conviction alone will affect your rates sooner or later.

I am not in the position to give any legal advice but as far as I know it is the insurance company’s problem if they do not find your DUI conviction and raise your rates. In addition to that, I do not believe that there are any past penalties they can assess but they could very easily drop you. If you will not notify your insurer though to avoid paying high premiums, you are taking a risk that might ultimately make it difficult for you to purchase insurance if they decide to cancel your policy.

Even if your auto insurance premium might dramatically increase due to your DUI, you still have a chance to lower it down by keeping a clean and safe driving record onwards.