What Happens When You’re Given an SR22

If you have been told by the state of California that you need to get an SR22, then you’re probably wondering how you go about doing that, as well as when you can get out of it. If you are required to file an SR22, it doesn’t mean that you are a bad driver; it does mean that you are considered a high risk driver. Not to worry, as FreewayInsurance.com has got you covered.

There are some common reasons for why you might be someone who is considered to be a high-risk driver, meaning that you need to file an SR22. For example, driving under the influence (DUI) could easily land you with an required SR22. Someone who does something like absentmindedly back into a neighbor’s fence is another example of someone who would need to file an SR22.

What Is It?

An SR22 is not insurance, although it often will impact the cost of your auto insurance. It is a form filed with your state, proving that you have minimum car liability insurance, as required and set out by your state. An SR22 certificate shows that you, the person carrying it, has at least the state-required level of car insurance. Your insurance company is guaranteeing that by having a policy with them, you are covered, and hold responsibility for any accidents that occur when driving. Your insurance company will then let your state know if you are not covered. 

How Is an SR22 Given?

One of the only ways that you can get an SR22 certificate is from a car insurance company, right after you have bought an auto insurance policy with them. There isn’t another way to get an SR22 form. If you already have an existing auto insurance policy, then you might be able to add the SR22 onto your policy, and then have it filed where appropriate. 

If your current auto insurance company doesn’t go to file the form, or you are uninsured, then you will need to look for a new auto insurance policy. Get in touch with an insurance company like Marisol’s Insurance Services who can consult you on how it can impact your insurance, but keep you on the road if necessary. 

How Much Does It All Cost?

Car insurance is something that can vary from company to company, but many auto insurance companies charge a one-time fee for filing, when it comes to an SR22. It is usually around $25, which in essence, is what the form is costing you. There can be other costs associated with getting an SR22 form. 

It is likely that with an existing auto insurance policy in place, getting a violation, like a DUI, often means that the auto insurance premium will go up. This is because you are seen as a driver that will take more risks, meaning that the chances of the insurance being needed will be higher. There can also be fines and fees associated with the violation itself. 

Basically, with an SR22, your auto insurance company has to make you get the minimum amount of coverage required by the state, so that you are complying with the right insurance requirements. As a result, you may have to pay a little more, depending on what kind of insurance you already had with them. Talk things through with your auto insurance provider, though, as they will be the experts when it comes to this and the state mandated requirements.

What Insurance Form Is Required?

Many people can connect the need for having an SR22 with drivers who have committed a DUI. This isn’t always the case, but if it is, then looking up specific DUI insurance could be helpful when it comes to getting an auto insurance policy. The fact is that having an SR22 can be as a result of a number of things, depending on where in the US you live, such as several traffic offenses, whether you’re uninsured, or have been in an accident when uninsured.