A new study that took a closer look at DWI trends around the United States found that Minneapolis holds a dubious distinction as being one of the worst cities for drunk driving in America.
The study, conducted by LendingTree.com, analyzed insurance quotes from the 50 largest cities in the US to determine where drunk driving is most prevalent. Although three of the top five cities for DUI rates come from California, Minneapolis ended up in the six spot. Here’s a closer look at the top ten cities for DUI rate per 1,000 drivers:
1. Omaha, Nebraska – 4.48 per 1,000
2. San Jose, California – 3.68 per 1,000
3. Sacramento, California – 3.55 per 1,000.
4. Virginia Beach, Virginia – 3.46 per 1,000.
5. Fresno, California – 3.31 per 1,000.
6. Minneapolis, Minnesota – 3.30 per 1,000.
7. Longwood Beach, California – 2.83 per 1,000.
8. Bakersfield, California – 2.78 per 1,000.
9. Oakland, California – 2.76 per 1,000.
10. New York, New York – 2.73 per 1,000.
Interesting DWI Trends
The study went on to share some other interesting trends about drunk driving in America. Let’s explore some of those data points below:
- Gen Z drivers were most likely to be caught driving under the influence – 2.62 drivers per 1,000 – but Millennials weren’t far behind at 2.40 per 1,000 drivers.
- BMW drivers had the highest DUI rate among the car brands analyzed, with 3.09 DUIs per 1,000 drivers, followed by Ram (3.00) and Acura (2.69).
- Mercury drivers had the lowest DUI rate, at 0.86 per 1,000, followed by Land Rover (1.16) and Lincoln (1.16).
- The average annual increase in insurance premium after a DUI is 2,449 a year, more than $200 a month. However, this varies by city. Drivers in Detroit saw their annual rates climb a staggering $12,627, which was number one in the nation, followed by Carlotte ($6,057) and Raleigh ($5,187).
That last takeaway point is huge, which is that car insurance rates typically skyrocket after a DUI conviction. Most drivers are focused on jail time, the loss of their driver’s license and fines/fees associated with the charge, but they overlook the secondary expenses linked to their conviction. In today’s economy, having to shell out an extra $200 a month for car insurance can be financially crippling. This is just another reason why it’s so important to contest a DUI charge in court.
Your lawyer may be able to get the charges thrown out or work to help negotiate a much more favorable plea deal so that you can avoid the major ripple effects of a DUI. You made a mistake, but you shouldn’t have to take on significant debt in order to get back on your feet and move forward in life. Let Avery and the team at Appelman Law Firm help you navigate this tricky situation and ensure your rights and your financial interests are protected.
For more information about contesting a DUI charge or a similar traffic violation, reach out to Avery and the team at Appelman Law Firm today at (952) 224-2277.
