Are you a “high-risk driver” with a problem? Ever hear of SR22 Insurance?

Image: Mock car accident, DoD, Public Domain.

I had never heard of this before but it’s interesting.

Driver’s licenses are suspended every day for a number of reasons. In order for you to get your driving privileges re-instated, it will often require making an appearance in a courtroom to plead your case. Involving a lawyer can help you to strengthen your case so that the judge will allow you to get your license back. Regardless of the situation, most judges will give you the right to drive again, assuming that you get an SR-22 certificate to meet the financial responsibility laws.

An SR-22 is not an insurance policy. Rather, it is an addition to an insurance policy that is required of some drivers by law as a result of a DUI or other driving-related issue that marks you as a high risk. The actual details behind the SR-22, including the costs, how long it needs to stay in effect and why it must be a part of your policy will vary from state to state and are not (currently) required in:

  • Delaware
  • Kentucky
  • Minnesota
  • New Mexico
  • Oklahoma

Having the SR-22 will allow you to drive with a restricted license and it will also allow the insurance company the ability to submit to the DMV that you have met your state’s financial responsibility requirements as necessary based upon your driving record.

Causes of SR-22’s Issuance

There are a number of reasons behind issuing an SR-22 to a driver. Many times, this is because during a particular traffic offense, the person was unable to show financial responsibility. This is due to such traffic violations as:

  • DUI (DWI/OUI)
  • Reckless driving
  • At-fault accidents
  • Driving without insurance
  • Other offenses
  • Pissing off the wrong people (I added that bit ~Kelly)

The best way to fully grasp the details of the SR-22 is to familiarize yourself with state laws. The filing of the certificate will be handled differently from state to state. The penalty and filing fees will vary as will with the certificate will actually be required. Since all states have different financial responsibility laws, the SR-22 will look very different in California than it would in Ohio or another state. Familiarizing yourself with the state laws will ensure that you remain in accordance with the law to prevent future driver’s license suspensions. Rate comparison site, Auto Loan says the cost of getting an SR-22, which is between $15 and $30, far outweighs the financial and legal risks of not carrying one which can be thousands.

If you are looking for a SR-22 insurance addendum or want further information look here.
http://www.sr22insurance.net/guide/