Did you know that being charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Nevada can severely affect your driver’s license and insurance? In the Silver State, a DUI conviction can significantly disrupt your life, making it challenging to get around daily. This article will discuss the possible implications of a DUI on your driving status and insurance costs and how a skilled Nevada criminal defense lawyer can help defend your case.
Impact of a DUI on Your Driver’s License
A DUI conviction in Nevada can lead to suspending or revoking your driver’s license. According to Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) §484C.400, the suspension or revocation period depends on the number of previous DUI convictions within a specific period.
- First DUI Conviction: If you are convicted of DUI for the first time, your driver’s license will be suspended for 185 days.
- Second DUI Conviction: A second DUI conviction within seven years of the first results in a one-year suspension of your driver’s license.
- Third DUI Conviction: A third DUI conviction within seven years leads to a three-year revocation of your driver’s license.
In addition to the suspension or revocation, DUI offenders in Nevada must take an alcohol awareness course before applying for a driver’s license reinstatement. If you are convicted of a second or subsequent DUI, you must also attend a Victim Impact Panel.
While you may apply for a restricted license during suspension, you must first pass a DUI court referral program evaluation. This evaluation aims to assess your risk of reoffending and may include drug or alcohol monitoring. You must also install an Ignition Interlock System (IIS) in your vehicle. An IIS device analyzes your breath for alcohol content before allowing the car to start.
Impact on Your Car Insurance
A DUI conviction in Nevada dramatically impacts your car insurance. Once your driving privileges have been reinstated, you must file an SR-22 form with the Nevada DMV to prove you have sufficient insurance coverage. The Nevada DMV requires an SR-22 for at least three years following a DUI conviction.
Obtaining an SR-22 means your car insurance provider considers you a high-risk driver, which results in substantially increased insurance premiums. The increase in premiums can vary, but it’s not uncommon to see rates double or even triple following a DUI conviction. Remember, this financial burden extends for a minimum of three years post-conviction.
A DUI conviction in Nevada can have long-lasting implications on your driving privileges and insurance costs. Losing your driver’s license and facing skyrocketing insurance premiums can be daunting. Still, with the help of experienced legal counsel, you stand a better chance of successfully navigating the legal landscape. Richard P. Davies and his team can help you create the best defense for fighting a DUI charge. Call (775) 360-6894 or email us to schedule a free consultation.