How Participation in the ARD Program Affects Your Insurance Rates
When facing certain criminal charges in Pennsylvania, the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program can be a lifeline. Designed for first-time, non-violent offenders, ARD offers participants the chance to avoid a criminal record by completing specific program requirements. While the benefits of the ARD program are significant, many people wonder: how does ARD participation affect my car insurance rates?
Let’s break this down.
Understanding the ARD Program
The ARD program is essentially a second chance. Instead of being convicted of a crime, participants complete requirements like probation, community service, or counseling. Once the program is successfully completed, the charges are dismissed, and participants can even seek to have their records expunged.
However, when the offense involves driving under the influence (DUI), the story becomes more complicated. In DUI cases, ARD participation still involves a license suspension, fines, and mandatory alcohol education courses. And while ARD can prevent a criminal conviction, the administrative side of a DUI — including its impact on your driving record — doesn’t just disappear.
The Insurance Implications
When it comes to auto insurance, companies assess risk. A DUI charge, even if resolved through ARD, signals risky behavior to insurers. Here’s how ARD participation can affect your insurance:
1. Driving Record Impact
While ARD may keep you out of criminal court, a DUI-related offense is still reported to PennDOT (the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation). PennDOT may note the DUI on your driving record, even if you’re enrolled in ARD. Insurance companies routinely check driving records and will see this entry.
2. Higher Premiums
Most insurance companies treat a DUI as a major violation. Even with ARD, your insurer may view you as a high-risk driver and adjust your premiums accordingly. Increases can range from 50% to over 100%, depending on your insurer and driving history.
3. Non-Renewal or Cancellation
Some insurers have a zero-tolerance policy for DUI-related incidents. Even if you’re in ARD, your provider might choose not to renew your policy. In some cases, they may cancel it outright, forcing you to shop for high-risk insurance options.
4. Timeframe for Rate Changes
If you successfully complete ARD, the DUI can be expunged from your criminal record. However, expungement doesn’t necessarily erase it from your driving record. Insurance companies may still consider the incident for up to three years or more, depending on their internal policies.
Mitigating the Damage
Although ARD participation can’t completely shield you from insurance consequences, there are steps you can take to minimize the impact:
Shop Around: Different insurers weigh DUIs differently. Comparing rates from multiple providers can help you find the most competitive premium.
Complete ARD Requirements Promptly: Demonstrating responsibility by finishing ARD requirements quickly shows insurers that you’re serious about turning things around.
Take a Defensive Driving Course: Some insurance companies offer discounts to drivers who complete a certified defensive driving program. This can help offset rate increases.
Maintain a Clean Record: Avoid additional traffic violations or accidents. A clean record over time can help rebuild your reputation with insurers.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Navigating the ARD process and its aftermath can be overwhelming. That’s where experienced legal counsel comes in. At Frank Walker Law, we’ve helped countless clients secure their future by guiding them through ARD and minimizing the impact on their lives — including their insurance rates.
The decisions you make now will affect you for years to come. If you’re facing DUI charges or considering the ARD program, contact Frank Walker Law today for a consultation. We’ll help you understand your options and fight to protect your rights, reputation, and financial well-being.
Facing a DUI charge is stressful, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Let Frank Walker Law guide you every step of the way. Call us today to start building your defense.
About Frank Walker Law
Attorney Frank Walker of Frank Walker Law is a National Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer, and Personal Injury Attorney who has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, a member of the National College for DUI Defense, Best Attorneys in America, Best Law firms of America, America’s Greatest Attorneys, and a Top AVVO Rated attorney, with offices in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and Morgantown West Virginia.
Additionally, you can find Attorney Walker on YouTube, TikTok, the Pittsburgh Attorney Podcast and the West Virginia Attorney Podcast, where he gives legal tips (not advice!) and discusses the pressing legal issues of the day.
If you or someone you love are facing criminal charges or are seriously injured in an accident, contact Attorney Frank Walker immediately at 412-532-6805 (Pittsburgh), 304-413-0179 (Morgantown), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for aggressive and experienced Criminal Defense or Representation in a Civil Case.