Everything you need to know about SR-22 insurance

SR-22 insurance: Everything you need to know

Have you ever heard of SR-22 insurance? If not, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many people are unaware of what SR-22 insurance is until they find themselves in a situation where they need it. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about SR-22 insurance, from what it is to how to get it.

What is SR-22 insurance?

SR-22 insurance is not actually insurance at all. It’s a certificate of financial responsibility that is required by some states for high-risk drivers. If you’ve had a DUI, multiple traffic violations, or have been caught driving without insurance, you may be required to file an SR-22 with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

The SR-22 certificate is proof that you have the minimum amount of liability insurance required by your state. It’s important to note that not all states require an SR-22, so be sure to check with your state’s DMV to see if it’s something you need.

How to get SR-22 insurance

If you find yourself in need of an SR-22, the first thing you’ll need to do is contact your insurance company. Not all insurance companies offer SR-22 certificates, so you may need to shop around for a new policy.

Once you’ve found an insurance company that offers SR-22 certificates, you’ll need to provide them with some information about your driving history and pay a fee. The insurance company will then file the SR-22 with your state’s DMV on your behalf.

The cost of SR-22 insurance

One of the biggest misconceptions about SR-22 insurance is that it’s expensive. While it’s true that your insurance rates may go up after a DUI or other traffic violation, the cost of the SR-22 certificate itself is relatively low. Most insurance companies charge a one-time fee of around $25 to file the SR-22 with the DMV.

However, it’s important to remember that the cost of your insurance policy may increase significantly after a traffic violation. Be sure to shop around for the best rates and consider taking a defensive driving course to help lower your premiums.

Real-world examples

Let’s say you’ve been caught driving without insurance and are required to file an SR-22. You contact your insurance company and they inform you that they don’t offer SR-22 certificates. You shop around and find a new insurance company that does offer SR-22 certificates and they file the certificate with the DMV on your behalf. Your insurance rates go up, but you’re now able to legally drive again.

Or perhaps you’ve had a DUI and are required to file an SR-22. You contact your insurance company and they inform you that they will no longer insure you due to your high-risk status. You shop around and find a new insurance company that specializes in high-risk drivers and offers SR-22 certificates. You pay the fee and the insurance company files the certificate with the DMV. Your insurance rates are higher than before, but you’re able to get back on the road.

Conclusion

SR-22 insurance may seem confusing at first, but it’s actually quite simple. It’s a certificate of financial responsibility that is required by some states for high-risk drivers. If you find yourself in need of an SR-22, be sure to contact your insurance company and shop around for the best rates. Remember, the cost of the SR-22 certificate itself is relatively low, but your insurance rates may increase significantly after a traffic violation.

As we move forward, it’s important to stay informed about the latest developments in SR-22 insurance and how they may affect you as a driver. Whether you’re a high-risk driver or not, understanding SR-22 insurance is crucial for anyone who wants to stay on the right side of the law.