What is an SR22 auto insurance policy?
What is an SR22 Auto Insurance Policy?
An SR22 auto insurance policy is issued by court order to people who have been convicted of various driving violations, including driving under the influence, and who were not able to demonstrate financial responsibility. This type of policy provides proof that the person to whom it is issued has coverage meeting the minimum required by the state. Your insurance company will file the policy with the Department of Motor Vehicles on your behalf by filling out and submitting the SR22 form. Most states will require you to hold SR22 auto insurance for a minimum of three years following the violation. During this time you must hold continuous coverage in order to have the SR22 status revoked at the end of the time period.
Since state requirements for an SR22 auto insurance policy differ, you should check with your DMV to find out the specific requirements for your state. Some states may not require this type of policy at all, but in those states that do, violations such as driving under the influence, not having insurance at the time of an accident, having your license suspended or receiving a major conviction may all result in the state requiring you to have an SR22 policy.
You may obtain an SR22 auto insurance policy through most major insurance companies. Since prices can vary widely among carriers, it's important that you do your research before settling on a particular company. Get free quotes from as many companies as possible and avoid those that seem to be taking advantage of your SR22 status in order to charge you more. In addition to cost, you should also consider benefits, service and coverage amounts offered by the company you're looking at. Be aware that since SR22 coverage is considered high risk, you may be required to pay a higher premium than you would be otherwise.
Once you've chosen your company, the insurance agent can quickly file the SR22 form for you. Most states offer free electronic filing in order to quickly get your driver's license reissued and allow you to begin driving again. Remember that coverage must be continuously maintained for the full length of time specified in order to meet state requirements and your insurance company is required to inform the Department of Motor Vehicles if you let your coverage lapse for any reason or length of time. This is an especially important point to keep in mind if you are considering switching insurance companies.
Accidents happen and even the best drivers can make serious driving mistakes. That's why it's important that you find a company that is willing to work with you even if you've had your license suspended and need an SR22 auto insurance policy. Even though you'll most likely be charged higher rates as a matter of course since you'll be considered high risk, it's still important to shop around for the best price. By maintaining adequate coverage and keeping your driving record clean, you'll be able to have your SR22 status revoked as quickly as possible.
