Florida law requires a person to obtain FR-44 DUI insurance after that person is convicted of drunk driving, which also includes driving under the influence of drugs. This means the person’s insurance policy could change, premiums could increase, and in some instances, a person’s current carrier even could drop them.
After a DUI conviction in Florida, the convicted person’s driver’s license will be suspended. The length of time for the suspension can vary based on the offense. In order to legally drive again, the convicted person must have their license reinstated. However, before that can happen, he or she must get FR-44 DUI insurance form.
The process can be complex and time consuming, but it is necessary to drive again after a conviction for driving under the influence. The person must request the form from his or her insurance provider immediately after conviction. Requesting the form will result in the person being labeled as a high-risk driver behind the wheel, and that can carry a heavy burden.
Obtaining insurance after filing an FR-44 form can be more difficult. Insurance companies operate on a risk assessment basis. A person labeled high-risk could potentially lead to a loss for the company. The higher the companies perceive the risk, the higher the rates could be.
The current insurance provider legally has the option to terminate the policy of a person requesting FR-44. If a person’s policy is dropped, he or she will have to find a new provider, which also could be a difficult task. Some carriers would not want to offer a high-risk driver a new insurance policy.
If the insurance company does not terminate the policy, the policyholder likely will be paying more for liability insurance and any other coverage. In Florida, a person convicted of DUI will be required to obtain liability insurance coverage in the amount of $100,000 per person, $300,000 per occurrence and $50,000 for property damage.
In Florida, there are alternatives to some of the punishments that accompany DUI convictions. However, this is no way of avoiding the FR-44 form requirement. Once a person is convicted, it becomes a necessity to be able to legally drive again.
The best way to avoid the FR-44 punishment is to avoid a DUI conviction all together. There is no program or fee than can exempt you from the requirement. The best way to accomplish that is by having a skilled DUI defense attorney.
Andrew D. Stine is a skilled and passionate criminal defense attorney with more than a decade of experience defending the rights of those facing criminal charges. He uses his knowledge and experience to represent clients throughout the West Palm Beach Area. He has handled a variety of criminal cases, including DUI/drunk driving, criminal traffic offenses and drug charges.