what is sr22
If you’re a driver who has experienced some difficulty along the way, you may have heard of SR-22 insurance. But what is SR-22 insurance, and how does it differ from regular auto insurance? SR-22 is a state filing required of drivers who have been convicted of certain driving offenses, such as DUI or DWI, driving without insurance, or multiple traffic offenses in a short timeframe. It is not an insurance policy per se, but rather a form that your insurance company files with the state to prove that you have the required coverage.
START FREE ONLINE QUOTE NOW
At Blake Insurance Group, we respect your privacy. Your personal information is used solely for quote purposes and is not shared or sold
Reasons for Needing an SR-22
There are several reasons why you might need an SR-22 filing:
– Driving under the influence (DUI or DWI) convictions: If you have been convicted of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you will likely need an SR-22 filing to get your license reinstated.
– At-fault accidents without insurance: If you have been involved in an accident and did not have insurance at the time, you may need an SR-22 filing to get your license reinstated.
– Multiple traffic offenses in a short timeframe: If you have received multiple traffic offenses within a short timeframe, you may need an SR-22 filing to get your license reinstated.
– Driving with a suspended license: If your license has been suspended for any reason, you may need an SR-22 filing to get it reinstated.
– Unsatisfied judgment suspensions: If you have been involved in an accident and have not paid the resulting damages, you may need an SR-22 filing to get your license reinstated.
SR-22 Filing Process
If you need an SR-22 filing, here are some things you should know:
– How to obtain an SR-22 form: You can obtain an SR-22 form from your insurance company. Not all insurance companies offer SR-22 filings, so you may need to shop around to find one that does.
– Role of insurance companies in filing: Your insurance company will file the SR-22 form with the state on your behalf. They will also notify the state if your coverage lapses or is canceled.
– Timeframe for filing after a qualifying event: The timeframe for filing an SR-22 after a qualifying event varies by state, but it is typically within 30 days.
– Fees associated with filing: There are two types of fees associated with filing an SR-22: the filing fee and the increased cost of your insurance. The filing fee varies by state but typically ranges from $15-$25.
Duration and Requirements
Here are some things you should know about the duration and requirements of SR-22 insurance:
– How long drivers are typically required to maintain SR-22: Most states require drivers to maintain SR-22 insurance for a minimum of three years. However, the duration can vary by state and by the severity of the offense.
– The consequences of lapses in SR-22 coverage: If your SR-22 coverage lapses or is canceled, your insurance company will notify the state, and your license may be suspended or revoked. You will also likely have to start the filing process over again.
– Steps to take once the SR-22 duration is completed: Once your SR-22 duration is completed, you should contact your insurance company to have the filing removed. You may also want to shop around for new insurance rates, as your rates may have increased due to the SR-22 filing.
Cost Implications
SR-22 insurance can be expensive due to the increased risk that insurance companies take on when insuring high-risk drivers. Here are some things you should know about the cost implications of SR-22 insurance:
– Why insurance premiums may increase: Car insurance premiums increase with an SR-22 because your insurance company will usually classify you as a “high-risk” driver. The average SR-22 insurance cost is $742 to $1,465 per year, on average, depending on the insurer and the offense that led to the SR-22 requirement.
– Comparing SR-22 insurance rates: It’s important to shop around and compare rates from multiple insurance providers to ensure that you are getting the best deal. Rates can vary widely depending on the insurer and the state in which you live.
– Tips to lower costs when you have an SR-22: Some tips to lower your SR-22 insurance costs include shopping around for the best rates, choosing a higher deductible, and only purchasing the coverage you need.
Differences in State Requirements
SR-22 requirements vary by state, and some states have equivalent forms, such as the FR-44 in certain states. It’s important to understand the requirements in your state and to work with a reputable insurance agent to ensure that you have the coverage you need.
Common Misconceptions about SR-22
There are several common misconceptions about SR-22 insurance that are important to understand:
– SR-22 is not an insurance policy: SR-22 is a state filing required of drivers who have been convicted of certain driving offenses. It is not an insurance policy per se, but rather a form that your insurance company files with the state to prove that you have the required coverage.
– Not everyone with a traffic violation needs an SR-22: SR-22 insurance is only required for certain driving offenses, such as DUI or DWI, driving without insurance, or multiple traffic offenses in a short timeframe.
– Moving to another state doesn’t necessarily free you from SR-22 requirements in the previous state: If you move to a state that does not use SR-22s, you still need to keep your SR-22 on file in the original state for as long as it is required in that state. Some states require extra fees, additional insurance, and refiling your SR-22 with them.
In conclusion, SR-22 insurance can be expensive, and it’s important to understand the cost implications, differences in state requirements, and common misconceptions about SR-22 insurance. Working with a reputable insurance agent can help ensure that you have the coverage you need and that you understand the requirements of your state.
SR-22 insurance is a state filing required of drivers who have been convicted of certain driving offenses. It is not an insurance policy per se, but rather a form that your insurance company files with the state to prove that you have the required coverage. If you have been convicted of a driving offense, it is important to understand the requirements for SR-22 insurance in your state and to work with a reputable insurance agent to ensure that you have the coverage you need.