Do You Need Drunk Driver Insurance in Illinois?

Reader’s Question:

My driver’s license was suspended because of my drunk driving charge. Is it true that this can be a reason for my car insurance rates to go up?

Barry

Des Plaines, IL

The states don’t allow insurance providers not to give coverage to people because of their color, faith, residence, profession or age but they can drop your policy for some other reasons. This includes having a suspended driver’s license, too many tickets or having a felony, criminal negligence or DUI conviction. Car insurance providers typically treat those who have drunk driving charge differently than those who have a clean driving record. They usually charge higher car insurance premium rates or they can even drop the policy.

Since you have a drunk driving charge in Illinois, you will be tagged as a high risk driver. If your car insurance provider finds out about it and decides to keep you, they would likely increase your premiums. In that case, you will be expected to file a proof of insurance, or what is called SR22, so that your driver’s license will be reinstated. Also, because of the SR22, your car insurance provider would notify the Department of Motor Vehicles if your car insurance policy is canceled for whatever reason.