If your state or a court has ordered you to get SR-22 insurance, you may wonder what that means. Given the name, you may even think it's another type of auto insurance policy.
Generally, an SR-22 is an official document that proves you have the minimum liability insurance obligated in your state. It can also be referred to as a certificate of financial responsibility. Below are answers to the top four questions asked about SR-22 insurance.
Who Needs an SR-22?
Not everyone needs SR-22 car insurance. Typically, it's required if you're caught driving without a valid license or insurance. It may also be required for various driving-related violations, such as:
- DUI/DWI conviction
- Reckless driving
- Excessive traffic violations
- Multiple at-fault accidents
- Refusal to pay court-ordered child support
On most of these occasions, you'll need to get an SR-22 before your driving privileges are reinstated or before you can be issued a new license.
How Do You File for an SR-22?
When you're notified to file for an SR-22, start by contacting your car insurance company. As long as they offer SR-22 form filings, they will handle everything for you.
If you're the company doesn't offer SR-22s, or you don't have car insurance, you'll have to purchase a new policy. To save yourself time, let potential insurance firms know in advance that you require SR-22 car insurance.
What If You Don't Own a Car?
You may still be required to have an SR-22 even if you don't own a vehicle. In such a case, you'll need to buy a non-owner car insurance policy to cover you while driving a car you don't own, say a rented or borrowed vehicle. Your insurer will file the SR-22 for you if you meet all coverage requirements.
If the car you drive belongs to someone in your household, you may not need to buy a non-owner insurance policy. You can simply be added as a driver on their insurance policy before filing for an SR-22.
How Much Will SR-22 Insurance Cost You?
Most insurers will charge you a one-time fee of about $25 to file for an SR-22. In some states, you may need to pay the fee upfront, while in others, it may be added as an extra charge to your insurance premium.
It's also important to note that most insurers consider SR-22 drivers to be high-risk drivers. Thus, your insurance rates may rise after filing an SR-22. The level of increase will depend on various factors like your driving record, ZIP code, insurance history, and type of vehicle, among other things!
For more information, contact an auto insurance provider near you.
Share