SR-22
Obtaining a driver’s license is a privilege; not a right. Therefore, drivers must always obey the laws and rules of the road whenever they get behind the wheel of a vehicle. If they don’t, then they must deal with the consequences, which may come in the form of fines, suspensions, or jail time, depending on the severity of the infraction. Car insurance helps assist drivers financially if they are involved in an accident or other insurance claim. If you are found to be responsible for a motor vehicle accident, you may have to apply for an SR-22.
An SR-22 is a certificate that displays proof of insurance if a driver has been found guilty of a serious driving offense. Such offenses include driving while impaired, driving without valid insurance, reckless driving, or being responsible for multiple motor vehicle accidents. An SR-22 form must meet the minimum liability requirements of the state that the driver resides in. Most licensed car insurance agencies can issue an SR-22 form in office, which is then sent to the appropriate state department. This process, in entirely, may take up to 30 days to complete. Once the application has been accepted, the driver must hold the SR-22 for a minimum of 3 years. If for any reason it is cancelled or it expires, the issuing insurance company must notify the Department of Motor Vehicles to advise them. In this case, the driver will no longer be permitted to legally drive.
There are actually three different forms of SR-22 certificates that can be issued. The operator’s certificate covers a driver who does not own their own vehicle. It will allow them to drive any other vehicle that doesn’t belong to them. An owner’s certificate will cover all vehicles owned by the driver. An operator’s-owner’s certificate provides coverage to the driver for any vehicles they own as well as if they drive vehicles that belong to someone else.
There is usually a fee involved when filing an SR-22, but the amount will vary from state to state. The fee will be charged when a driver initially files, but not for any renewals, unless the original certificate expires or lapses. This fee is also charged per individual, not per policy.
If a driver has been charged with a serious driving violation and they require an SR-22, the best course of action it to contact their insurance company so that they are fully aware of the process involved. If caught driving without an SR-22, a driver will most certainly face even harsher penalties, fines, and expensive insurance. It will be difficult to secure an insurance policy through most insurance companies.
