For individuals with certain types of traffic violations, obtaining SR-22 insurance may be a requirement to continue driving legally. While it is commonly referred to as “SR-22 insurance,” it is not technically an insurance policy in and of itself, but rather a document that verifies that a person has the minimum liability insurance required by law. This article explores what SR-22 insurance is, who needs it, how long it is required, and how it works.
What Is SR-22 Insurance?
An SR-22 is a form that is filed with the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency by a driver’s insurance company. The form serves as proof the driver has at least the minimum liability insurance required by law. If the driver’s insurance coverage lapses or is canceled, the insurance company is required to notify the DMV, which can result in the suspension of the individual’s driver’s license. Several companies, such as iisinsurance.com, specialize in SR-22 forms.
Who Needs SR-22 Insurance?
Not everyone needs SR-22 insurance. It is typically required for individuals who have been convicted of certain traffic offenses, such as driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol, driving without insurance, or being involved in an accident without insurance. Additionally, if a driver accumulates a significant number of points on their driving record within a certain period, they may be required to obtain SR-22 insurance.
How Long Is SR-22 Insurance Required?
The length of time that SR-22 insurance is required varies by state and by individual case. In general, it is required for a minimum of three years following a conviction for a traffic offense that necessitated the filing of an SR-22 form. However, some states may require it for a longer period of time, and the length of time extends if the driver is found guilty of additional traffic violations or allows their insurance coverage to lapse.
Is SR-22 Insurance Expensive?
While the cost of SR-22 insurance varies by state and by individual case, it is generally more expensive than standard auto insurance. This is because the driver required to obtain an SR-22 is typically considered to be a high-risk driver, which increases their insurance premiums. Additionally, the insurance company likely charges a filing fee to submit the SR-22 form to the DMV.
How Does SR-22 Insurance Work?
Once a driver receives notification that they are required to obtain SR-22 insurance, they contact their insurance company to request the filing of the form with the DMV. The insurance company typically charges a fee for this service, and the cost of the insurance policy itself is higher than usual.
Once the SR-22 driver files the form with the DMV, the driver continues driving legally as long as they maintain the minimum liability insurance required by law. The insurance company must notify the DMV if the policy lapses or is canceled, which can result in the suspension of the driver’s license.
SR-22 insurance is a form that verifies that a driver has at least the minimum liability insurance required by law. The requirement for individuals who have been convicted of certain traffic offenses, and the length of time requirement varies by state and by individual case. While SR-22 coverage is generally more expensive than standard auto insurance, it is necessary for individuals to continue driving legally after certain types of traffic violations.