Let’s be honest. If you are told that you need SR-22 insurance when you are shopping for car insurance quotes, it’s not fun. We can certainly hope you don’t need to look for SR-22 insurance quotes, but it’s not as bad as you think. Many people get needlessly afraid when they need to get high risk auto insurance because they don’t truly understand it.
People wonder where to get an SR-22 insurance policy. Others want to know how to get rid of the need for an SR-22. A great number of people don’t even know what “SR-22” means!
What is an SR-22 Insurance Policy?
An SR-22, which is also known as a “Statement of Responsibility” form or a “Certificate of Financial Responsibility,” isn’t technically insurance. It’s a verification that you have sufficient liability insurance to drive. Basically, it’s your car insurance company vouching for you to your state, assuring state officials that you are properly insured to legally drive.
Who Needs SR-22 Car Insurance?
You are usually required to obtain an SR-22 if a judge requires you to get one for the following reasons:
- A DUI/DWI
- Being at-fault in an accident while driving without car insurance
- Acquiring multiple traffic offenses within a short period of time
- Getting your license suspended or revoked
Even if you do not own a car, you might be required to get a non-owner SR-22 certificate to legally drive rental vehicles or for when you borrow a friend’s car.
What Does SR-22 Insurance Cost?
Well, it’s a complicated answer. You can get cheap SR-22 insurance and it usually costs around $25 for it to be filed. However, because you need an SR-22 to legally drive, most insurance companies will only offer you high risk auto insurance premiums and costs for your coverage given your driving record. Depending on your state, you might even have to pay everything in full instead of installments. It’s important to do your research and shop around to find the best offer for your budget.
How Do I Get an SR-22 Form?
You can only obtain an SR-22 form through your insurance provider, but the car insurance provider must be filed with the state. Once the insurer agrees to cover you, they will send the SR-22 to the DMV to be filed.
It should be noted though that if you move to another state, you will have to file an SR-22 again, but this time for your new home state. You will also have to pay the liability limits required of that state.
How Long Does an SR-22 Have to Be Maintained?
The majority of states require drivers to carry an SR-22 for three years. Be forewarned, you must have continuous car insurance coverage throughout those three years. If there is any lapse in coverage or a cancellation, your insurer is legally required to inform the DMV and your license will be suspended.
How Can I Avoid an SR-22 Insurance Requirement?
It’s rather simple:
- Don’t drink and drive
- Be safe on the road to avoid traffic violations and speeding tickets
- Don’t drive without car insurance
But know that needing SR-22 insurance isn’t the end of the world. Everyone makes mistakes. That’s why after three years of driving without any violations, your driving record should be cleared. Without any violations on your record, you won’t need an SR-22 anymore. This leads to less hassle with the state and cheaper car insurance premiums later on.
If you need an SR-22, you can get it through Freeway Insurance along with an affordable high risk auto insurance policy. We offer a variety of SR-22 insurance quotes for you to compare and save on coverage. Call Freeway at (800) 777-5620 to get a free high-risk auto insurance quote or fill out the form online today.
