What is my Wisconsin OWI Impact on Insurance?

Operating While Intoxicated, or OWI, is illegal in Wisconsin. Many drivers wonder if an OWI on their record will impact their insurance rates and the answer is Yes. An OWI conviction almost always results in an increase in auto insurance premiums. An OWI conviction will carry other penalties as well, notably the SR22.

What You Need to Know About the SR22

1. Provided by Your Insurance Company. An SR22 is a certificate that auto insurers file with the Wisconsin DMV that proves you have an auto insurance policy. Since it is provided by the insurance company, it is sometimes referred to as SR22 insurance, even though it is not an insurance policy.
2. Required After Driver’s License Suspensions. SR22s are required whenever a driver reinstates their license after having it suspended for OWI. An SR22 is also required of drivers who had a suspended license for driving without insurance, reckless driving, or another violation that resulted in the suspension.
3. Lasts for 3 Years. Drivers are required to have an SR22 for 36 months after an OWI conviction.
4. You Will Lose Your License if Coverage Lapses. If you don’t pay your insurance premiums while you have an SR22 or fail to renew the SR22 at least 15 days before it is due, it will be cancelled and your license will be suspended until a new SR22 is filed.  

Requesting an SR22

You get your SR22 from your car insurance provider. To obtain the certificate, you must contact your provider, determine the coverage amount needed and pay the associated fees. The insurance company will send the SR22 directly to the DMV. You will receive a letter and the SR22 form in the mail once it has been accepted by the state.

Is it Possible to Determine the OWI Impact on Insurance?

Every insurance policy is different and every insurer handles OWIs differently, so there is no way to know what the OWI impact on insurance premiums will be, but it is not unusual for drivers to pay significantly more for premiums after an OWI.

To explore all of your options regarding an OWI impact on your insurance, contact the OWI attorneys at Eisenberg Law Offices and schedule a free consultation. Take steps to protect your future driving privileges now, by calling 608-256-8356 or emailing info@eisenberglaw.org to schedule.