Streamlining The Sr-22 Auto Insurance Process

You are probably wondering what an sr-22 insurance is and what it has to do with you. Or maybe you've just been ordered by a judge to get one and have no clue what it is or how to get one. Below, you'll find useful facts that will help you understand and obtain this document.

What is sr-22?

Contrary to what you may think, the sr-22, also known as a Certificate of Financial Responsibility (CFR,) is not an insurance policy. It is a form issued by your insurer certifying that you have the minimum liability insurance policy required by your state.

Who needs one?

It is normally required of high risk drivers. The following may make you a high risk driver:

  • Driving without insurance coverage

  • Dangerous driving

  • Driving under the influence of alcohol

  • Having many traffic offenses over a short period of time

  • Having your license suspended or revoked

The process

Typically, you will do the sr-22 filing through an insurer like Rowell Insurance Agency, but you must also have a separate car insurance policy in place. You will need your driver's license and your vehicle's registration number. Your driving record, obtainable from your DMV can also help.

Next, get a quote from your insurer for your insurance policy. Remember to mention that you need an sr-22 as well.

The insurer will request to file a sr-22 form with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. It will take 5-10 days to get your sr-22; you may get it sooner if filed electronically.

How Long Should I Have it?

The duration for which you should have an sr-22 varies from state to state but spans between 3 and 5 years.

During this period, you should have the sr-22 continuously without lapsing. If you do lapse, your insurer has the responsibility of informing your state's DMV of this lapse. As a result, your license may be suspended, and you may be subjected to other penalties.

If you move to another state, your former state will still require that you have an sr-22. If you don't have one, the new state may suspend your driving license.

To avoid needing an sr-22 filing in the future, practice safe driving, avoid drunk driving, and always ensure you have insurance cover.

If you have been ordered to get an sr-22 filing, you do well to comply if you do not want your license revoked. Call your insurance provider and settle the matter. It costs little to get an sr-22 but can cost you much more if you neglect to get one.


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