If you’ve been caught driving without insurance, have been convicted for driving DUI, if your drivers license has been revoked or suspended or if you’ve had too many recent traffic violations, you may need an SR-22 auto insurance policy. When you get an SR-22 policy, a form will be filed with your state certifying that you have the required liability auto insurance. Your local DMV or DPS will be notified of any lapse, termination or cancellation in your insurance policy. Your insurance company will file the SR-22 on your behalf.
If you already have auto insurance, you should contact your auto insurance provider to see if they can issue an SR-22 insurance policy. If your existing auto insurance provider can’t give you an SR-22 insurance policy, you can call another insurance provider to get a quote. Try a reputable company like State Farm, Farmers, Allstate, Geico, Progressive, Nationwide or The General first. You may be able to find comparison quotes on websites such as Esurance.com. Be sure to ask for an SR-22 auto insurance policy when you request your free quote.
If you can’t get an SR-22 auto insurance policy independently, your state department of insurance may be able to help. Check the National Association of Insurance Commissioner’s website for a link to the website of the department of insurance in your state. Browse for automobile insurance links, then look for Guaranteed Auto Protection or GAP insurance. You will find a list of auto insurance companies that are geared toward providing high risk insurance policies.
You don’t need to own a car to get an SR-22 insurance policy. If you have your own car, select an owner’s policy. If you rent a car, borrow a car or drive a car that isn’t registered to you, select a non-owner’s policy. However, if you choose the owner’s policy, you’ll get liability insurance only. You must pay extra to get additional coverage such as collision, personal injury and uninsured and underinsured motorist protection.
Also check your state’s laws. In some instances, an insurance provider won’t be able to issue an SR-22 insurance policy in your state. While some states don’t require an SR-22 filing, you may need to continue your SR-22 insurance if you move to one of these states from a state that does require a filing.
Most importantly, once you get your SR-22 insurance policy, don’t let it lapse. Make sure you know how long you’ll need to maintain your SR-22 insurance, and make your payments on time every month. When it comes time to cancel your SR-22 policy, your insurance company will handle the details. Contact your insurance provider or your state’s DMV or DPS for more information.