Having auto insurance is mandatory in almost every state in the country. If you get caught driving without the required amount of minimum coverage, several things will happen. There will be large fines and you will more than likely lose your license for 90 days or longer, depending on where you live. You will also have to pay a reinstatement fee to get your license back once your suspension ends. In order to regain your driving privileges, you will need to show proof of insurance.
What Is an SR-22?
An SR-22 is not an insurance policy. An SR-22 certificate provides proof of insurance that the state requires to reinstate your driving privileges. If you have been charged with a DUI or failed to provide proof of insurance, you might not be able to get a traditional auto insurance policy. Once you have been charged with this type of offense you will be considered “high risk” by most auto insurance carriers. This doesn’t mean you won’t be able to get insurance. It only means that the insurance you get will be written for a high-risk driver and will be considerably more expensive. If you need auto insurance but don’t own a vehicle, you must get a policy that provides an SR-22 certificate.
What Type of Insurance Will Provide You With an SR-22?
SR-22 insurance is a policy that provides you with the amounts you need to meet the state minimum amount of coverage. This type of policy will include both the minimum amount for property damage, as well as for personal liability. The minimum amount for each type of coverage may vary from state to state. If you move to a different state and have an SR-22, you will want to visit a local insurance agent to ensure you have enough coverage. Affordable Car Insurance Tampa can help you if you’re in Florida!
Who Files Your SR-22?
The insurance agent you buy your car insurance policy from will file your SR-2 certificate for you. Once you have customized your policy to meet your needs and paid your premiums, you will receive a certificate that details the limits of your coverage and the terms for your premiums. Your agent will go over every section of the policy, so you know what it covers and how much your limits are. After you have paid the premium, your insurance will be reinstated, and you will be able to drive legally in your state. Your insurance agent will immediately file your SR-22 certificate with the state to ensure that you have met all of the minimum requirements.
Does an SR-22 Cause Your Insurance to Go Up?
Filing an SR-22 is not the reason your insurance rates go up. Your rates will go up if you are charged with an infraction or violation that is serious enough to warrant the suspension of your driving privileges. This is often the result of numerous traffic violations, being charged with a DUI/OWI, driving without valid insurance, or not paying child support that has been ordered through the court. Any of these infractions or violations can result in the loss of your license for a specific amount of time. When it comes to non-payment of child support, you may not be eligible to have your license reinstated until your support is caught up and paid in full.
It’s important to know why you are considered a high risk when it comes to insurance. Knowing how to get SR-22 insurance and the certificate that goes with it is also essential. If you have questions, contact a reputable insurance agent. They have all of the information you will need, as well as the paperwork for filing the SR-22 certificate with your state. If you have moved to a different state or your situation has changed, contact an insurance agent right away to ensure that you have the right type of auto insurance in place at all times. Getting behind the wheel of a car without the right type of auto insurance can be costly! Don’t take chances with your driving privileges. Contact an agent today!
