Car Insurance and SR22: How to Find Cheap Coverage

Ron Trumbo Insurance Editor

Reality Check: Do you need an SR-22? What's your story and what are you finding so far? Please share on our Facebook page?

You may be savvy with your budget, but are you considered a high risk driver? Perhaps you have a DUI conviction on your driving record? Maybe you were you were in a car accident without insurance coverage, or you're coming off the suspension of your license?

Maybe it was a circumstance that the court deemed serious enough to require more proof of insurance? These are all examples of situations where drivers might require an additional SR-22 Insurance Filing with their State's DMV. Find comfort in knowing that you're normal, you simply have to follow another step.

For any responsible driver with a mark on their driving record, an SR-22 is nothing than an extra request of an insurance company. As you shop for car insurance, you should still look for discounts on your policy depending on your driving activity, the safety features on your car, among many other opportunities any agent should be able to identify.

SR22 Auto Insurance

If you're shopping for a new car insurance policy in the hopes of replacing existing coverage or even saving money, be aware that an SR-22 may cost extra, but some car insurance companies may even provide them for free or for a nominal one-time fee. No matter what, don't be held hostage by an insurance agent extending "I'll save you" promises.

Delaware, Kentucky, Minnesota, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Pennsylvania do not require SR22 insurance.

An SR-22 filing is nothing more than a document provided by your car insurance company that certifies to your State DMV that you indeed have auto coverage that meets the State's minimum liability limits. As you can imagine, every State has very unique SR-22 requirements, so ask your insurance agent about the specific requirements, or visit your State's DMV website to get the real answer.

As a side note, it is imperative that you keep your mailing address current with your State's DMV, as you will receive occasional notifications about the status of your SR-22. Generally, drivers required to file an SR-22, must do so for approximately three years depending on your State's driving laws. Be aware that if you ever fail to renew your auto policy or cancel the insurance policy for that matter, your insurance company is required to send your State an SR-26 notification which states: "driver does not have coverage."

When you shop for car insurance and gather several quotes, you'll find that not all insurance companies provide SR-22 filings, therefore, be sure to ask. Furthermore, if you move to another state, your driving risk remains with you and you are indeed held to those States SR-22 requirements and the corresponding minimum auto insurance requirements.

Essentially, for any responsible driver with a mark on their driving record, an SR-22 is nothing than an extra request of an insurance company. As you shop for car insurance, you should still look for discounts on your policy depending on your driving activity, the safety features on your car, among many other opportunities any agent should be able to identify.

More information about SR-22