Car Insurance For Drunk Drivers in Ontario

Driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal in Ontario, and if you are caught driving while impaired, you may face serious legal consequences. In addition to criminal charges, you may also face challenges when it comes to finding car insurance.

In Ontario, car insurance providers are legally required to provide insurance coverage to all drivers who are licensed to drive in the province. However, if you have been convicted of a drinking and driving offense, you may be classified as a high-risk driver, which means you may face higher insurance rates or may have difficulty finding coverage.

It’s important to note that car insurance rates are determined based on a variety of factors, including your driving history, the type of car you drive, your age and gender, and your location. If you have been convicted of a drinking and driving offense, this will likely be taken into account by insurance providers when determining your rates.

To find car insurance as a drunk driver in Ontario, you may need to shop around and compare rates from multiple providers. Some insurance companies specialize in providing coverage to high-risk drivers, and they may be able to offer you more affordable rates than other providers.

Be honest about your driving history when applying for car insurance, as lying or withholding information could result in your policy being voided if you are involved in an accident. If you are having difficulty finding coverage, you may also want to consider working with an insurance broker who can help you navigate the process and find the right policy for your needs.

How Expensive Are Insurance Rates for Drunk Drivers?

The cost of insurance rates for drunk drivers in Ontario can vary widely depending on a number of factors, including the severity of the offense, the driver’s age and gender, their driving history, and the type of vehicle they drive. However, it’s important to note that insurance rates for drivers convicted of drinking and driving offenses are typically higher than for drivers with clean driving records.

Here are some examples of potential insurance rates for a drunk driver in Ontario:

1. Driver A: 30-year-old male with one conviction for driving under the influence of alcohol, no accidents, and a clean driving record otherwise. Drives a 2016 Honda Civic.

In this case, Driver A may be considered a high-risk driver and could face insurance rates that are two to three times higher than the average rate for a driver with a clean record. Depending on the insurance provider, he may be quoted rates ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 per year for full coverage.

2. Driver B: 45-year-old female with two convictions for driving under the influence of alcohol, one accident on record, and a history of speeding tickets. Drives a 2019 Toyota Corolla.

Driver B would likely be considered a very high-risk driver, and could potentially face insurance rates that are four to five times higher than the average rate for a driver with a clean record. Depending on the insurance provider, she may be quoted rates ranging from $7,000 to $10,000 per year for full coverage.

These are just examples, and the actual cost of insurance for a drunk driver in Ontario can vary widely based on individual circumstances. In addition, many insurance providers may require drivers with DUI convictions to complete an approved rehabilitation program before they will offer coverage.

What Are the Consequences of Getting a DUI?

In Ontario, driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense, and it can result in a range of legal and personal consequences. Here are some of the consequences of getting a DUI in Ontario:

1. Legal Consequences: A first-time DUI offense can result in fines of up to $1,000, a driver’s license suspension for up to one year, and the requirement to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. Repeat offenses can result in higher fines, longer license suspensions, and even jail time.
2. Increased Insurance Rates: As mentioned earlier, if you are convicted of a DUI offense, you may be considered a high-risk driver by insurance providers, and may face higher insurance rates or difficulty finding coverage.
3. Employment Consequences: A DUI conviction can also have negative consequences on your employment. Many employers conduct background checks before hiring, and a DUI conviction can be viewed as a red flag.
4. Personal Consequences: A DUI conviction can also have personal consequences, including damage to your reputation, strain on personal relationships, and increased stress and anxiety.
5. Criminal Record: A DUI conviction will also result in a criminal record, which can limit your ability to travel, volunteer, or obtain certain licenses.
6. Risk of Injury or Death: Driving under the influence is dangerous and can result in injury or death to yourself or others on the road.

Overall, the consequences of getting a DUI in Ontario are serious and can have long-lasting effects on your life. It’s important to always make responsible choices and never drive while impaired.

How Can You Get Insurance after a DUI?

Getting insurance after a DUI conviction in Ontario can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Here are some steps you can take to obtain insurance after a DUI:

1. Shop Around: Not all insurance companies are created equal, and some may be more willing to work with drivers who have a DUI conviction. It’s important to shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best rates.
2. Work with a Broker: An insurance broker can help you navigate the process of finding insurance after a DUI conviction. They can help you find insurance providers that specialize in high-risk drivers and can assist you in filling out the necessary paperwork.
3. Complete a Rehabilitation Program: Some insurance providers may require drivers with DUI convictions to complete a rehabilitation program before they will offer coverage. Completing an approved program can help demonstrate to insurers that you are taking steps to become a safer driver.
4. Consider a High-Risk Policy: High-risk insurance policies are specifically designed for drivers who have been convicted of DUI offenses. While these policies can be more expensive, they may be the best option for drivers who are having difficulty finding coverage.
5. Improve Your Driving Record: While a DUI conviction will remain on your driving record for several years, you can still work to improve your driving record by avoiding other traffic violations and accidents. Over time, a clean driving record can help you qualify for lower insurance rates.

Be upfront and honest with insurance providers about your DUI conviction, as lying or withholding information could result in your policy being voided if you are involved in an accident. With some patience and persistence, it is possible to obtain insurance after a DUI conviction in Ontario.

Can An Insurance Company Cancel Coverage after a DUI?

Yes, it is possible for an insurance company to cancel coverage after a DUI conviction. In Ontario, insurance companies have the right to cancel or non-renew an insurance policy if they believe the policyholder poses a high risk. Being convicted of a DUI offense is considered a high-risk factor, and insurance companies may choose to cancel coverage or refuse to renew a policy as a result.

Insurance companies are required to provide policyholders with written notice if they are cancelling or non-renewing a policy. In most cases, the insurer must provide at least 15 days’ notice before the cancellation or non-renewal takes effect.

If your insurance policy is cancelled or non-renewed after a DUI conviction, it can be challenging to find coverage from other insurance providers. You may need to seek out high-risk insurance providers, who may offer coverage at a higher rate.

Insurance companies cannot cancel coverage retroactively. This means that if you were insured at the time of your DUI conviction, your insurance company cannot cancel your coverage for any accidents that occurred before the cancellation date. However, if you are convicted of a DUI offense while uninsured, any accidents that occur after the conviction will not be covered by insurance.

What Is the “Back on Track” DUI Program?

The “Back on Track” program is a remedial program for drivers in Ontario who have been convicted of a DUI or impaired driving offense. The program is designed to help drivers address the issues that led to their offense and improve their driving behavior.

The “Back on Track” program is mandatory for all drivers who have been convicted of a DUI or impaired driving offense in Ontario. The program consists of two components:

1. Assessment: The first component of the program is an assessment, which includes a written test and an interview with a counselor. The assessment is designed to evaluate the driver’s risk of re-offending and determine the appropriate level of education and treatment.
2. Education/Treatment: The second component of the program is education and treatment, which is tailored to the driver’s individual needs. The education component includes a workshop that covers the effects of alcohol and drugs on driving, the consequences of impaired driving, and strategies for preventing future offenses. The treatment component includes individual or group counseling sessions, as well as referrals to community resources if needed.

The cost of the “Back on Track” program varies depending on the level of education and treatment required. The program is generally funded by the driver, with fees ranging from $634 for the education component to $1,375 for the treatment component. Drivers who are unable to pay the fees may be eligible for financial assistance.

Completion of the “Back on Track” program is a requirement for license reinstatement following a DUI or impaired driving conviction. Drivers who fail to complete the program may have their license suspended indefinitely.

How Can I Lower My Insurance Premium after a DUI?

After being convicted of a DUI, it is likely that your car insurance premiums will increase significantly. However, there are some steps you can take to try to lower your insurance premiums over time:

1. Complete a Rehabilitation Program: Completing an approved rehabilitation program can demonstrate to insurance providers that you are taking steps to become a safer driver. Some insurance companies may offer lower rates to drivers who have completed a rehabilitation program.
2. Maintain a Clean Driving Record: Avoiding traffic violations and accidents can help improve your driving record and demonstrate to insurers that you are a responsible driver. Over time, a clean driving record can help you qualify for lower insurance rates.
3. Shop Around: Not all insurance companies are created equal, and some may be more willing to work with drivers who have a DUI conviction. It’s important to shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best rates.
4. Consider a High-Deductible Policy: A high-deductible policy can help lower your insurance premiums, but it also means that you will be responsible for more of the costs in the event of an accident. Consider your personal financial situation carefully before choosing a high-deductible policy.
5. Drive a Safer Vehicle: Insurance rates are often lower for vehicles with safety features such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, and backup cameras. Consider purchasing a safer vehicle to help lower your insurance premiums.

Note that these steps may not result in an immediate reduction in insurance premiums, and you may still be considered a high-risk driver for some time after a DUI conviction. However, by taking these steps, you can demonstrate to insurance providers that you are committed to becoming a safer driver and potentially lower your premiums over time.

How Long Does A DUI Stay on Your Insurance Premium?

The length of time a DUI stays on your insurance premium can vary depending on the province or territory in which you live. Here is a breakdown of how long a DUI conviction may stay on your insurance premium in each province or territory:

1. Ontario: A DUI conviction can stay on your driving record for up to 10 years. However, insurance companies may only consider the last three to five years of your driving history when determining your premiums.
2. Quebec: A DUI conviction will stay on your driving record for 10 years. However, insurance companies are only required to consider the last three years of your driving history when determining your premiums.
3. British Columbia: A DUI conviction will stay on your driving record for five years. Insurance companies in BC are required to consider the last three years of your driving history when determining your premiums.
4. Alberta: A DUI conviction will stay on your driving record for 10 years. Insurance companies in Alberta are required to consider the last five years of your driving history when determining your premiums.
5. Saskatchewan: A DUI conviction will stay on your driving record for 10 years. Insurance companies in Saskatchewan are required to consider the last six years of your driving history when determining your premiums.
6. Manitoba: A DUI conviction will stay on your driving record for 10 years. Insurance companies in Manitoba are required to consider the last 10 years of your driving history when determining your premiums.
7. Nova Scotia: A DUI conviction will stay on your driving record for five years. Insurance companies in Nova Scotia are required to consider the last five years of your driving history when determining your premiums.
8. New Brunswick: A DUI conviction will stay on your driving record for 10 years. Insurance companies in New Brunswick are required to consider the last five years of your driving history when determining your premiums.
9. Prince Edward Island: A DUI conviction will stay on your driving record for 10 years. Insurance companies in PEI are required to consider the last five years of your driving history when determining your premiums.
10. Newfoundland and Labrador: A DUI conviction will stay on your driving record for 10 years. Insurance companies in Newfoundland and Labrador are required to consider the last five years of your driving history when determining your premiums.

Note that these time frames may be subject to change, and insurance companies may have their own policies regarding how far back they look into a driver’s history when determining premiums.