What Is SR-22 Insurance and What Does It Do?
SR-22 insurance is a unique form of auto insurance that serves a specific purpose in the United States. It is often required for individuals who have been involved in serious driving offenses or have had their driver’s license suspended or revoked. The SR-22 filing is not an insurance policy itself, but rather a certificate that verifies the existence of insurance coverage for a specific individual.
What is SR-22 Insurance?
When someone is required to obtain SR-22 insurance, it means they must obtain an insurance policy from a licensed provider and have the provider file the SR-22 certificate with the appropriate state department. This certificate serves as proof to the state that the individual has met the minimum insurance requirements mandated by law. Every person should learn more about SR-22 insurance and why it may be needed, so they can avoid being required to obtain it. This type of insurance is costly.
Why Might SR-22 Insurance Be Needed?
The most common reason for needing SR-22 insurance is a DUI or DWI conviction. However, it can also be required for offenses such as driving without insurance, multiple traffic violations within a short period, or being at fault in an accident without insurance. The specific requirements for SR-22 insurance vary from state to state, so it’s essential to understand the rules and regulations of the state in which it is required.
How Long Must a Person Hold SR-22 Insurance?
Once an individual has obtained SR-22 insurance, they are required to maintain it for a designated period, usually three years, although it can be longer in some cases. During this time, the insurance provider is obligated to notify the state if the policy is canceled, terminated, or lapsed due to non-payment. This ensures that the state is immediately informed if the individual fails to maintain the required coverage.
What is the Purpose of SR-22 Insurance?
The primary purpose of SR-22 insurance is to reinstate driving privileges for individuals who have been deemed high-risk by the state due to their past driving record. By requiring SR-22, the state aims to hold these individuals accountable and ensure that they have proper insurance coverage moving forward.
The Cost of SR-22 Insurance
While SR-22 insurance is generally associated with higher costs, individuals should shop around and compare rates from different insurance providers. Rates can vary significantly depending on factors such as the individual’s driving history, the state’s requirements, and the insurance company’s policies. Additionally, some insurance providers specialize in high-risk coverage and may offer more competitive rates for SR-22 insurance.
Which States Require SR-22 Insurance?
It’s important to note that SR-22 insurance is not required in all states. For example, Delaware, Kentucky, Minnesota, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania do not have SR-22 filing requirements. However, if an individual with SR-22 insurance moves to a state where it is not required, they must continue to fulfill the SR-22 requirements in their original state until the mandated period has ended.
SR-22 insurance is a specialized form of auto insurance that is required for individuals who have been involved in serious driving offenses or had their license suspended. It serves as proof to the state that the individual has met the minimum insurance requirements. While SR-22 insurance can be more expensive, it provides a pathway for individuals to reinstate their driving privileges and demonstrate responsible behavior on the road.