How Does Virginia’s FR44 Insurance Affect DUI/DWI Offenders?
If you were convicted of a DUI or DWI in Virginia, you are likely familiar with the term FR44 insurance. This special type of insurance is a requirement for many offenders looking to reinstate their driving privileges. Here, we discuss what FR44 insurance is, how it impacts DUI/DWI offenders, and what you need to know to navigate this process.
Our Manassas criminal defense lawyers at Battlefield Law Group PLLC can help you through every stage of the DUI/DWI proceedings. From helping at your arrest, pre-trial motions, or trial, we are ready to put our decades of experience to work for you.
What is FR44 Insurance?
FR44 insurance is a Financial Responsibility Certificate required by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for drivers convicted of DUI or DWI offenses. It is more stringent than the standard auto insurance and ensures that offenders maintain higher coverage limits.
Important things to know about FR44 insurance include:
- Higher Coverage Limits: FR44 insurance requires higher coverage amounts than standard drivers need, and even more than those with an SR-22 certificate.
- Duration: Offenders typically need to maintain FR44 insurance for three years.
Why is FR44 Insurance Required?
The primary goal of FR44 insurance is to ensure that DUI/DWI offenders have adequate financial coverage in case of future accidents. Those with prior convictions of drunk or intoxicated driving are considered “high-risk” and require higher coverage thresholds as a result.
This requirement helps protect other drivers and pedestrians from potential financial losses due to accidents involving high-risk drivers.
How Does FR44 Insurance Affect DUI/DWI Offenders?
Obtaining and maintaining FR44 insurance can be challenging and costly for DUI/DWI offenders. It can affect your life in many different ways. Here are some key impacts:
Higher Premiums
FR44 insurance typically comes with higher premiums compared to standard auto insurance. Offenders may see their insurance rates increase by 2-3 times their previous rates. This can be a substantial financial burden if you want to continue to drive. However, it is essential to utilize this coverage in order to legally operate your motor vehicle.
Limited Options
Not all insurance companies offer FR44 insurance, which can limit the options available to offenders. You need to shop around and find a provider that offers competitive rates and coverage.
Reinstatement of Driving Privileges
To reinstate your driver’s license, you must provide proof of FR44 insurance to the Virginia DMV. Failure to maintain this coverage can result in the suspension of your driving privileges.
Your attorney can help you prepare the proper paperwork to get your driving privileges back on track. This may include applying to the court for a restricted license or other driving privileges.
Steps to Obtain FR44 Insurance
If you have been convicted of a DUI or DWI in Virginia, follow these steps to obtain FR44 insurance:
- Contact Your Insurance Provider: Inform your current insurance company about your conviction and ask if they offer FR44 insurance.
- Shop Around: Compare rates and coverage options from different insurance providers to find the best deal.
- File the FR44 Certificate: Once you have obtained the required coverage, your insurance provider will file the FR44 certificate with the Virginia DMV.
- Maintain Coverage: Ensure that you keep your FR44 insurance policy active for the required duration to avoid license suspension.
Get Help with FR44 Insurance in Virginia
After a DUI/DWI conviction in Virginia, you likely have many questions. Our experienced team can help you from start to finish, including complying with all of your post-conviction driving requirements.
At Battlefield Law Group PLLC, our DUI/DWI defense lawyers provide a comprehensive defense to help with your case. Contact us today for a free consultation of your case.