You were just charged with a DUI, but what does mean for your car insurance? This guide will tell you everything you need to know about SR22 and DUIs.
If you've recently been convicted of a major traffic violation such as a DUI or reckless driving, there is a chance you've received a notice that you need to obtain an SR22. Most drivers assume that after they've been convicted of a DUI that they won't be able to get an auto insurance policy, but that is not true.
To learn more about what an SR22 policy is and who you can reach out to for more information, continue reading below! We will cover all you need to know about this type of policy and how it works.
What Is SR22 Insurance?
SR22 insurance isn't an insurance policy; instead, it is a certificate that your insurer sends to the state on your behalf. Most drivers who have a DUI or some other serious traffic violation have to get an SR22 certificate before they can get an insurance policy. An SR22 sometimes is used to reinstate your driver's license after a DUI charge.
Who Needs an SR22?
In general, those convicted of a DUI or a DWI need an SR22 filing because most DUIs lead to license suspension. In order to get your driver's license back, you have to file an SR22 which proves to the state that you carry the state-required minimums for auto insurance.
Other reasons you may need an SR22:
You owe court-ordered child support
You have too many traffic violations within a short amount of time
Serious moving violation charge
You caused an accident without an active auto insurance policy
It is important to note that not all states require drivers to get an SR22. The traffic court or your state DMV will let you know if you need one. If you are a typical driver without anything on your record, you don't need an SR22.
How Does SR22 Work?
An SR22 works similar to regular auto insurance, as it carries the same coverages. Most SR22 policies have liability coverage, but if you want to, you can add first-party coverages such as collision and comprehensive coverage to a car listed on the policy.
There are two types of SR22 insurance: non owner SR22 and traditional auto insurance with an SR22. The standard SR22 insurance policy covers the driver on a listed vehicle that the driver may own and operate. Non-owner SR22 policies cover most cars that you borrow or occasionally drive with some restrictions based on the insurance provider.
Non-owner SR22 Insurance
With a non-owner policy, the policy does not extend to any vehicles that you own or any vehicles parked at your residence. If you have any cars parked at your house that belong to your roommate or relatives, your policy won't cover those vehicles even if they aren't directly yours.
How Much Is SR22 Insurance?
Because SR22 insurance policies are specifically geared towards high-risk drivers with DUIs or other serious traffic infractions, they cost more than the average auto insurance policy. There are companies that you could partner with that offer cheap SR22 insurance, but make sure you thoroughly do your research on the company before you buy a policy.
How much your policy will cost depends on where you live and what type of driving violation you committed, which resulted in you needing an SR22. For example, if you need an SR22 because you failed to pay child support, you will most likely pay less than someone who needs an SR22 for a DUI.
SR22 Filing Cost
The cost to file an SR22 depends on your insurance company. Some charge as little as $5, while others charge you up to an additional $250 to file the document on your behalf.
How to Get Cheap SR22 Coverage
If you want a cheap SR22 policy, you may want to reach out to an SR22 insurer who only specializes in those policies. Bigger and well-known auto insurers only take a handful of SR22 clients. Even when they take on clients like you, they tend to charge way higher than usual because you are a higher risk to them.
How Long Do I Need an SR22 Form?
Depending on the state you received the conviction in, you may need to keep the SR22 on file for at least two to three years. As mentioned earlier, some states don't require SR22s.
If you have to move states and you happen to move to a state that does not require an SR22, don't cancel your policy. Check in with your state traffic court or attorney to see how best to proceed.
What Happens if I Cancel My SR22?
If you cancel your SR22 policy prematurely, you risk losing your license again. Unless the court tells you that you can cancel your policy, make sure you don't.
Not only do you risk losing your driving privileges, but you start your SR22 clock over. For example, let's say the court mandates you to keep the SR22 active for three years.
If you're two years into the sentence but cancel the policy or let it lapse, you have to start that three-year clock again. The auto insurance company is obligated to let the state know when you cancel or let it lapse.
Reputable and Cheap SR22 Insurance
After committing a serious traffic violation, most drivers have to get an SR22, especially if they were convicted of a DUI. If you find yourself in this predicament, you may be scrambling to find an SR22 policy that provides you with the coverage you need at an affordable price.
Partnering with larger insurers may seem like a good idea, but there is no need for that. Get a free quote now to see how much you can save on your SR22 policy.