Getting an SR-22 certificate is only part of the process. You have to keep your SR-22 certificate for a period of time. Most states require drivers to keep SR-22 certificated for about two or more years.
Keeping your SR-22 certificate means that you have to keep your insurance coverage. If you fail to carry insurance, you could lose your SR-22 certificate. Therefore, keep your insurance coverage active while you have the SR-22 coverage. There are a variety of ways to do so.
What is an SR-22?
Many people believe that SR-22 certificates are insurance policies. This is not true. SR-22s are simply forms that you file with your state DMV following a driving charge. They verify for your state authorities that you carry an active insurance policy.
Drivers get SR-22 requirements after an action that causes the state to classify them as high-risk drivers. SR-22 requirements may come from DUIs, multiple accidents, speeding, or other charges.
After you get an SR-22 requirement, you have to go to your insurance company to file an SR-22 form. Your insurance will likely file the form for a nominal fee.
Keeping your SR-22 Certificate
If you lose your insurance coverage during the SR-22 period, you will likely have to restart the penalty. To keep your SR-22 coverage active, keep the following rules in mind.
- Make sure that you have the correct auto insurance. SR-22 requirements often necessitate changes to your existing insurance coverage. Work with your insurance agent to adjust your coverage to follow SR-22 requirements.
- Keep your vehicle’s registration and your driving privileges up to date. If you get a new car or renew your driver’s license, your SR-22 will likely follow you. Make sure you update your existing insurance appropriately to reflect any changes.
- Pay your auto insurance bills on time. You could lose coverage if you fail to pay for your policy. Losing coverage will likely affect the SR-22 penalty and your insurance costs. Work with your agent to get a payment plan you can afford. You may also have the option to set up automatic payments for your auto insurance. Doing so means that your insurance company will draw money directly from your bank account whenever a payment is due. That way, you likely won’t miss a payment.
- Don’t re-offend while you have the SR-22 certificate. Further driving offenses could cause your insurance company to cancel your policy. This could cause your SR-22 period to restart from the beginning.
A big part of keeping an SR-22 certificate means keeping insurance coverage. Make sure you always have insurance while you carry an SR-22.
We can help you get an Marietta SR-22 policy that is correct for you. Call us at 877.997.2478 for more information.