What is an SR-22?
SR-22 explained
An SR-22 is a form that your insurance company files with the state on your behalf to prove you have the minimum amount of car insurance required by law to reinstate your driving privileges. This form ultimately serves as a certificate of financial responsibility.
It might sound scary, but it's actually quite simple - it's really just a form that helps you get back on track.
Typically, an SR-22 is requested by a court after a major moving violation. Some of these offenses might include:
- A DUI or DWI conviction
- Driving without insurance
- An at-fault accident while uninsured
- Multiple traffic offenses or serious violations
You might also need an SR-22 to qualify for temporary hardship driving privileges if your license has been suspended that would allow you to drive to and from work or school for instance.
So, is SR-22 a type of insurance?
You might hear people call it “SR-22 insurance,” but technically, the SR-22 not an actual insurance policy – it’s just referencing the form that is attached to the policy as proof that you meet your state’s minimum coverage requirements.
SR-22 actually stands for “Safety Responsibility Form 22” (or Form 22 under the Safety Responsibility law), which is part of the Safety Responsibility Act. This law was created to give high-risk drivers an opportunity to get back on the road after meeting certain financial obligations. There is also an SR-26, which is a notice of termination of the SR-22.
Purpose of the SR-22 form
An SR-22 not only verifies that you have met certain financial requirements after a serious violation or suspension, but it serves as proof that you are maintaining continuous insurance coverage for the required term. Basically, it’s the state’s way of making sure high-risk drivers stay insured to rebuild their driving record.
If your insurance lapses or if the policy is canceled due to non-payment, your insurance company will immediately contact the DMV with an SR-26 form, and your license will be automatically suspended. In other words, it is extremely important to keep your SR-22 policy active for the entire required period.
Do I need an SR-22?
If your DMV or court has not directly contacted you to file for one, then you probably don’t need to worry about it. An SR-22 is only required if it’s been ordered by the court or your state. If you have been instructed to file for an SR-22, you should act immediately and contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. The sooner your SR-22 is filed, the sooner you can get back on the road legally.
Need an SR-22? GAINSCO Auto Insurance can help
We handle everything for you – we can file for you instantly with same-day electronic transmission, and we offer flexible policies that are customizable to your specific needs. Call us at (866) 424-6726.
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