Drunk driving plays a factor in over 10,511 deaths and 1 million arrests every year in the US alone. It’s a major issue that stricter laws are attempting to fight against.
In most states, a DUI conviction will require you to add an SR-22 to your current insurance policy. It verifies that you’ll maintain the required amount of liability coverage in your state.
Filing this form is inexpensive, but it can increase your insurance premiums and make them more than you can handle. Finding an affordable policy is the best way to stay legal and lessen the burden on your wallet.
Read our guide to learn where to find cheap SR-22 insurance and what these policies entail.
What Is SR-22 Insurance?
An SR-22 is not a car insurance policy. It’s a certificate verifying that you’ll maintain the state minimum amount of vehicle liability coverage and that, if you don’t, your insurance company will notify the state.
There are 3 types of SR-22 insurance. An operator’s certificate is for drivers who operate a vehicle, regardless of whether or not they own it. An owner’s certificate is for drivers that own and operate a vehicle. Operator-owner’s certificates cover all vehicles that the driver owns and operates.
There are several reasons you may need to buy SR-22 insurance, including:
- A conviction for vehicular homicide, DUI, uninsured driving, driving with a suspended license, or hit-and-run
- Involvement in an accident without insurance
- Excessive demerit points on your license
Each state has its own rules on when you must file an SR-22, and some states don’t require one. They include:
- Minnesota
- New York
- New Mexico
- Delaware
- North Carolina
- Kentucky
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
10 of the 52 states that do require SR-22 insurance include:
- Texas
- Arizona
- Colorado
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Idaho
- Kansas
- Indiana
- New Jersey
- Oregon
Certain states, including Indiana, also require you to file an SR-50. This certificate guarantees you have the state minimum amount of car insurance right now.
The average length of an SR-22 insurance policy is 2-5 years. It’s required for 2 years in Texas and 3 years in Illinois.
How Can I Get Cheap SR-22 Insurance?
Filing an SR-22 insurance policy costs anywhere from $15 to $30. You’ll also have to deal with increased insurance premiums that come with being considered a “high-risk” driver.
You must maintain your SR-22 to avoid severe penalties such as a suspended or revoked license, becoming intelligible to have your license reinstated, and increasing the length of time you need to maintain it.
Finding the best cheap SR-22 insurance is a process of shopping around for the best rates. Check how much the insurance company will charge you and how it will affect your premiums.
Where Can I Find the Best SR-22 Insurance Coverage?
Convictions for a DUI or other serious vehicular offense require a change in your insurance. Most states require you to add an SR-22 to your policy. It ensures the state that you’ll maintain the minimum amount of liability coverage.
An SR-22 insurance policy can be expensive because it puts you in the high-risk category as a driver. Shopping around is the best way to ensure you get the best rates.
Insured ASAP is an affordable SR-22 insurance company that can get you the policy you need. Get a quote today.