Everything You Need to Know About SR22 General Insurance

When it comes to driving, safety should always be a top priority. However, accidents happen and unfortunate incidents can occur, which may lead to the need for SR22 general insurance. If you are not familiar with SR22, don’t worry. This article will give you a comprehensive guide on what SR22 insurance is, what it covers, and how to get it.

What is SR22 General Insurance?

SR22 insurance is not an actual insurance policy. It is a document that shows proof of financial responsibility that is required by some states in the United States. If a driver has been involved in an accident or has committed a traffic violation, they may be required to file an SR22 with their state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to show that they have the minimum required insurance coverage.

So, if you are required to file an SR22, it does not mean that you need a new insurance policy. Instead, you will need to add an SR22 endorsement to your existing auto insurance policy, or purchase a new policy that includes SR22 coverage.

When is SR22 General Insurance Required?

The circumstances that may require you to file an SR22 vary from state to state. However, some common reasons include:

Reasons for SR22 Requirement
States That Require SR22
Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI)
Most states
Driving without insurance coverage
Most states
Reckless driving
Most states
Driving with a suspended or revoked license
Most states
Being involved in an accident while driving with no insurance
Most states

It is important to note that not all states require SR22 insurance. Make sure to check with your state’s DMV to know if it is a requirement.

What Does SR22 Insurance Cover?

SR22 insurance does not provide any additional coverage. It serves only as proof that you have the minimum required insurance coverage that your state mandates. Therefore, it covers the same things as your existing auto insurance policy, which typically includes:

  • Liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage
  • Uninsured motorist coverage
  • Personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payments coverage

How to Get SR22 General Insurance?

The process of getting SR22 insurance is relatively straightforward. Here are the general steps:

Step 1: Contact Your Insurance Provider

The first step is to contact your insurance provider and ask if they provide SR22 endorsements. If they do, you will need to add it to your existing policy. If they do not, you will need to purchase a new policy that includes SR22 coverage.

If you do not have an existing insurance policy, you can start by shopping around for one that specifically offers SR22 coverage.

Step 2: Provide the Required Information

To obtain an SR22, you will need to provide the following information to your insurance provider:

  • Your full name and address
  • Your driver’s license number
  • The reason you are required to file an SR22
  • The length of time you will need to carry the SR22

Step 3: Pay the Fees

The fees for SR22 insurance vary depending on your insurance provider and your state’s requirements. Expect to pay an initial fee for filing the SR22 and a higher premium for your insurance policy since you are considered a high-risk driver.

Step 4: Wait for Confirmation

Once you have provided all the necessary information and paid the fees, your insurance provider will file the SR22 with your state’s DMV. It typically takes a few days to receive confirmation that your SR22 has been accepted.

FAQ about SR22 General Insurance

1. Is SR22 insurance expensive?

Yes, SR22 insurance tends to be more expensive than regular auto insurance because it shows that you are a high-risk driver. However, the actual cost varies depending on your driving history, the state you live in, and the insurance provider you choose.

2. How long do I need to carry SR22?

The length of time you need to carry SR22 varies by state and can range from one to five years. Make sure to ask your insurance provider or your state’s DMV for the exact duration.

3. Can I get SR22 without a driver’s license?

No, you cannot get an SR22 without a driver’s license. SR22 is a document that shows proof of financial responsibility for drivers who have committed traffic violations.

4. What happens if I don’t file SR22 when required?

If you do not file SR22 when required by your state, your driver’s license may be suspended, and you could face penalties such as fines, increased insurance rates, or even jail time.

5. What if I move to a different state?

If you move to a different state, you will need to check if SR22 is required in the new state. If it is, you will need to refile the SR22 with your new state’s DMV.

In Conclusion

SR22 general insurance may seem complicated at first, but it is a necessary requirement for some drivers. Make sure to consult with your insurance provider or your state’s DMV for more information on how to file SR22 and maintain it properly.