Did you know that Pennsylvania’s drunk driving laws were significantly overhauled, with stricter penalties and a tiered approach to enforcement? The law lowered the legal alcohol limit from .10 to .08. It’s not just about penalties and fines anymore. The focus is now on offering treatment to first-time offenders to provide rehabilitation instead of just punishment and suspension. The combination of an individual’s blood alcohol content (BAC) level and past offenses will determine the penalties and licensing requirements.
This update significantly changes DUI enforcement and treatment. Driving under the influence (DUI) has more of an impact than you might think. Can you afford it?
Are you working through a DUI charge? Are you worried about your car insurance? Understanding the latest changes and how they will affect you is vital. Read this post to stay informed so you can navigate these new regulations.
(Also, keep in mind that this blog post is intended for informational purposes only. We offer insurance expertise, not legal advice!)
How Pennsylvania’s Laws Impact Auto Insurance
Pennsylvania’s DUI law has three levels: general impairment, high BAC, and highest BAC. The updated law imposes stricter penalties to deter drunk driving. A first offense could mean a one-year ignition interlock requirement (IID) — a small, handheld breathalyzer installed in a car ignition that prevents users from being able to start their car after drinking alcohol. A first offense could also mean probation, a $300 fine, and court-ordered treatment.
A second offense might result in a 12-month license suspension, at least 5 days of jail time, a fine, treatment, and a one-year IID requirement. Multiple offenses may lead to a 12-month license suspension, up to 2 years of prison time, a fine, treatment, and a one-year ignition interlock requirement.
These tough consequences emphasize the seriousness of repeated DUI offenses in Pennsylvania. Also keep in mind that legal fees from a DUI lawyer typically range from $2,000 to $5,000 per case.
Just like your home, you and your vehicle are valuable assets that need protection from unexpected events like a DUI. Personal auto insurance in Pennsylvania is an investment that shields you from significant financial losses in the event of an accident. Eber & Associates, with our seasoned expertise, can guide you through the numerous options to secure the best policy for your needs.
With our insurance brokers, you can be confident that your policy meets all legal requirements, giving you the peace of mind that you are well protected.
DUIs and Auto Insurance (Pennsylvania): A Risky Mix
Car insurance companies meticulously scrutinize driving records to gauge risk, and a DUI is a significant red flag that can lead to a substantial hike in premiums. In Pennsylvania, a DUI can dramatically inflate the average cost for full coverage compared to a clean driving record. On average, DUI offenders in Pennsylvania typically pay about 109% more than drivers with a clean record. The look-back period for driving violations in Pennsylvania spans 3 to 5 years.
It’s crucial to understand that a DUI can result in the potential cancellation of your existing insurance policy and can pose a challenge when seeking new insurance. We’ve been through these situations before and can guide you through your options.
Pick the Insurance That’s Right for You
For decades, Eber & Associates has helped Pennsylvania drivers find the best auto insurance policies for their unique needs. Our goal is to make the process as easy as possible for our customers, with options including:
- Bodily injury liability
- Property damage liability
- Medical payments coverage
- Emergency road service
- Comprehensive coverage
- Collision coverage
- And more
Eber & Associates has been the go-to choice for Pennsylvania drivers in search of the perfect auto insurance policies. Call for a free quote today to get covered through life, for life.
