Insurance with an SR22

Driving without insurance is illegal in most states in the United States. If you are caught driving without insurance or with inadequate coverage, you may be required to file an SR22 form with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This can have significant financial and legal consequences, including increased insurance rates, fines, and even suspension of your driver’s license. In this article, we will explore what an SR22 form is, why you may need it, and how it affects your insurance coverage and rates.

What is an SR22 Form?

An SR22 form, also known as a Certificate of Financial Responsibility, is a document that verifies that you have the minimum required automobile insurance coverage mandated by your state. The form is filed by your insurance company with your state’s DMV to show proof of your insurance coverage. If you are required to file an SR22 form, your insurer may charge you an additional fee for this service.

The SR22 form typically needs to be maintained for a minimum of three years, but this can vary depending on the state and the reason for the requirement.

Why Would I Need to File an SR22 Form?

There are several reasons why you may be required to file an SR22 form. These may include:

How Does an SR22 Affect My Insurance Coverage and Rates?

If you are required to file an SR22 form, your insurance company will likely consider you a high-risk driver. This means that your insurance rates may increase significantly. Additionally, if you fail to maintain your insurance coverage, your insurer may cancel your policy.

To ensure that you maintain your insurance coverage and avoid having your policy canceled, it is important to make your payments on time and to inform your insurer if you move or if there are any changes in your coverage needs. If your policy is canceled, you may be required to start the SR22 filing process over again, which can be costly and time-consuming.

FAQ

What if I Don’t Own a Car?

If you do not own a car but still need to file an SR22 form, you may be able to purchase a non-owner insurance policy. This type of policy provides liability coverage when you are driving a vehicle that you do not own.

Can I Switch Insurance Companies While Filing an SR22 Form?

Yes, you can switch insurance companies while filing an SR22 form. However, it is important to ensure that your new insurer is aware of the filing requirement and is willing to file the form with your state’s DMV.

How Long Do I Need to Maintain My SR22 Form?

The length of time that you need to maintain your SR22 form can vary depending on your state and the reason for the requirement. In most cases, you will need to maintain the form for at least three years. However, if you have multiple violations or convictions, you may need to maintain the form for a longer period of time.

Will an SR22 Form Affect My Credit Score?

No, an SR22 form does not directly affect your credit score. However, if you are required to file the form, it may indicate to lenders and creditors that you are a high-risk borrower, which could affect your ability to obtain credit or loans in the future.

What Happens if I Move to Another State?

If you move to another state while you are required to maintain an SR22 form, you will need to file the form in your new state. You should inform your insurance company of your move as soon as possible so that they can help you file the necessary paperwork with your new state’s DMV.

In conclusion, an SR22 form can be an onerous requirement for drivers who have been convicted of DUI or DWI, caused an accident without insurance, or received multiple traffic violations. If you are required to file an SR22 form, it is important to understand how it affects your insurance coverage and rates, and to maintain your insurance coverage to avoid having your policy canceled. By following these guidelines, you can successfully fulfill the SR22 requirement and get back on the road legally and responsibly.