If you’re in the market for SR22 insurance, you may be feeling a bit overwhelmed. After all, SR22 insurance is unlike any other type of insurance coverage. It’s specifically designed for those who have had their driver’s license suspended or revoked due to DUI/DWI convictions or other serious driving violations. Here are five basic facts you should know about SR22 insurance before you purchase it.
What is SR22 Insurance?
SR22 insurance is a type of car insurance that is used by individuals who have had their driver’s license suspended or revoked due to DUI/DWI convictions or other serious driving violations. It serves as proof that the person has adequate liability coverage and must be filed with the state DMV by an authorized insurer. The filing generally remains active for three years from the date it was issued, unless otherwise specified by the court or state agency responsible for issuing the suspension or revocation order.
Once the DMV receives proof that you have obtained an SR-22 certificate from your insurer, they will review it and determine whether or not to reinstate your license. The time frame can vary depending on how long it takes them to process the request and issue a decision; however, typically it takes anywhere from 1–3 weeks after filing the form before your license will be reinstated.
Who Needs SR22 Insurance?
There are several reasons someone would be required to obtain SR22 insurance. Anyone who has been convicted of a DUI/DWI offense, received multiple traffic tickets in a short period of time, has been involved in a hit-and-run accident, or caused an accident while driving without valid insurance will likely need to purchase SR22 insurance. This is generally required in order to have their license reinstated after their suspension period has ended. Without this type of coverage, they will not be able to legally drive on public roads again until they obtain it.
How Much Does SR22 Insurance Cost?
The cost of SR22 insurance varies depending on several factors such as your age, driving record, and current zip code location. Generally speaking, however, you can expect to pay anywhere from $15-$25 per month for this type of coverage depending on your individual circumstances and the insurer you choose to work with. In most cases, it is much less expensive than what traditional car insurers normally charge for similar levels of coverage as it’s used to supplement standard coverage.
What Are the Benefits of Having SR22 Insurance?
The primary benefit of having this type of coverage is that it allows individuals who have had their driver’s license suspended or revoked due to certain driving violations to legally drive again on public roads once their suspension period ends; assuming no other restrictions are placed upon them. A driver who is legally required to obtain SR22 insurance will not be allowed to drive legally until it is obtained. Additionally, having this type of policy can also help protect other drivers from potential liability if they should cause an accident while driving with a suspended license as long as your policy limits are sufficient. It’ll assist in coverage of accidents alongside your regular insurance.
How Can I Obtain SR22 Insurance?
The best way to obtain this type of coverage is by contacting an authorized insurer and requesting an application form for filing purposes with your state DMV office. Many insurers offer online applications so that you can get started right away without needing to leave your home or office; however, be sure that you do some research beforehand so that you find an insurer offering competitive rates and good customer service before signing up for a policy. Some basic questions you’ll want to ask before committing to an insurance company might be:
– How much will my premiums increase if I have an accident?
– What is the deductible amount for each type of coverage?
– Am I covered in other states if I am involved in an accident while driving?
– What is the length of the policy term and how often can it be renewed?
– Are there any restrictions on who can drive my car if I am involved in an accident?
In conclusion, anyone who has had their driver’s license suspended or revoked due to DUI/DWI convictions or other serious driving violations should consider purchasing SR22 insurance in order to comply with state laws and regain legal access to public roads once again after serving out their suspension period. Be sure that you do some research beforehand so that you find an insurer offering competitive rates and good customer service before signing up for a policy. With this knowledge under your belt, now all there’s left is doing the legwork necessary so that you can enjoy getting back behind the wheel soon.
