Navigating SR-22 Insurance with The General

SR-22 insurance can seem confusing, but The General makes it simple. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about SR-22s and how The General can help if you need to file.

What is an SR-22?

An SR-22 is not actually a type of insurance. It is a certificate that proves you have the minimum liability insurance required by your state. SR-22 stands for “Safety Responsibility Form 22”.

You may need to file an SR-22 if:

• You were convicted of certain traffic violations like DUI or driving with a suspended license
• You were involved in an at-fault accident without proper insurance
• A court ordered you to file one

The SR-22 shows the DMV that you are complying with your state’s minimum insurance requirements.

Why You Might Need an SR-22

There are several reasons why you might be required to file an SR-22:

• DUI conviction – Being convicted of driving under the influence will likely trigger an SR-22 requirement in most states.

• Multiple traffic tickets – Getting multiple tickets in a short period of time can also lead to an SR-22, even if none of the tickets were for DUI.

• Driving without insurance – Being involved in an at-fault accident without proper insurance will require you to file an SR-22 in most states before getting your license back.

• Driving with a suspended license – If your license was suspended for any reason, you’ll probably need an SR-22 to get it reinstated.

• Court order – Courts can order an SR-22 filing for certain violations like failure to pay child support.

How Long Do You Need an SR-22?

SR-22 requirements typically last 3 years. But they can last 5 years or longer depending on the violation and your state’s regulations.

The clock usually starts ticking from one of these dates:

• Conviction date
• License suspension date
• Accident date
• License reinstatement date

Check with your state’s DMV to find out exactly how long you’ll need to maintain your SR-22.

What Happens if You Cancel Your Policy?

If you cancel your auto insurance policy during the SR-22 period, your insurance company must immediately notify the DMV. Once the DMV is alerted that you no longer have insurance, they will suspend your license right away.

You’ll have to start the SR-22 period all over from day one if you let your coverage lapse. Maintaining continuous insurance coverage is essential to meeting your SR-22 requirements.

How The General Can Help with SR-22 Insurance

Filing an SR-22 can be a headache, but The General makes it easy. Here’s how we can help:

We’ll file the form for you – Just tell us you need an SR-22 when getting a quote, and we’ll take care of submitting the proper paperwork to your state.

Available in most states – The General offers SR-22 filing in most states. Check with your agent to confirm we can file in your state.

Electronic filing – In states where allowed, we can electronically file your SR-22 to get you proof of insurance as quickly as possible.

Affordable rates – Even with an SR-22, The General provides affordable high-risk auto insurance designed to satisfy state requirements.

Policy documents included – Your SR-22 certificate will be included along with your insurance policy documents.

Alerts for lapsed coverage – We will promptly notify the DMV if your coverage lapses so you don’t unknowingly drive uninsured.

Expert support – Our agents understand SR-22 requirements and will walk you through the process from start to finish.

How Much Does an SR-22 Increase Your Rates?

There is typically a small $25 filing fee for an SR-22 certificate. The General includes this fee in your premium quote.

However, the biggest rate impact comes from the violation triggering the SR-22 requirement – not the SR-22 itself. Expect your rates to increase significantly after a major violation.

For example, rates often go up 70-80% or more after a DUI conviction. The exact increase depends on the violation as well as insurance regulations in your state.

Over time, as the violation fades into your distant past, you can expect your rates to gradually decrease. The General will work with you to provide the most affordable high-risk insurance possible.

Alternatives to an SR-22

Not every state uses the SR-22 system. Some have alternative ways to monitor high-risk drivers:

• FR-44 – Similar to an SR-22, but only required in Florida and Virginia.

• Other forms – A few states have their own unique forms instead of an SR-22.

• No form – A handful of states don’t require any special filings.

Unfortunately, you can’t get out of an SR-22 requirement by moving to another state. Every state shares insurance information, and you’ll still have to comply with the mandates of the state that ordered your SR-22.

The General has experience satisfying SR-22 requirements across the country, so you can count on us to properly handle filings even across state lines.

Maintaining SR-22 Insurance with The General

The General makes maintaining SR-22 coverage simple. Here are some tips for staying compliant with your requirements:

• Pay your premiums on time to avoid lapses in coverage. Set up autopay if you’re prone to forgetting due dates.

• Contact us immediately if you need to change vehicles, update your address, or make any other policy changes. We’ll ensure the DMV’s records stay up to date.

• Keep your policy documents handy. You may need to provide proof of SR-22 coverage if pulled over or asked for insurance verification.

• Mark your calendar when the SR-22 requirement ends. Once your violation eligibility period is over, the SR-22 is no longer needed.

• Consider keeping full coverage. If you still have a car loan, your lender will require physical damage coverage in addition to basic liability. This provides protection if your car is totaled.

• Drive safely and avoid additional tickets. Any new major violations will likely lead to an extended SR-22 period.

• Ask us if you have any questions! We’re here to help you meet your state’s SR-22 insurance mandates.

SR-22 Insurance Gives You Peace of Mind

An SR-22 requirement can be stressful, but The General is here to take the hassle out of maintaining compliance. We make it quick and easy to get SR-22 coverage so you can keep your license valid and get back on the road.

Don’t risk driving without proper insurance – contact The General today to discuss your SR-22 options. We look forward to helping you meet your state’s requirements and your driving needs!