Avoid the SR-22: Don’t Drink and Drive

Many associate an SR-22 requirement with a charge of Driving Under the Influence (DUI). If alcohol or a narcotic has impaired you, then you are not safe behind the wheel. This is the universal truth.

The safest drivers refrain from practices that could get them an SR-22 requirement. They also do everything possible to avoid a DUI charge.

Take some time to learn more about SR-22 requirements. Also keep in mind important safety tips that could help you avoid a DUI charge.

Understand SR-22 Coverage

SR-22 certificates are not insurance policies. They are forms that attach to your current car insurance plan. They prove to your state DMV that you still carry insurance after a driving charge.

Most states have SR-22 rules, but their applications vary from place to place. You may have to get an SR-22 for a variety of driving violations. These include:

• DUI and DWI charges
• Multiple accidents
• Multiple convictions for reckless driving
• Hit-and-runs
• Driving without insurance
• Frequent tickets

You must carry car insurance for the duration of the SR-22 rule. The time usually lasts for about 2 years, though this varies from state to state.

During the SR-22 period, you are often considered something of a driver on probation. If you lose auto insurance during this time, your insurance company usually must notify the DMV. The SR-22 period will likely restart from the beginning. You will also likely face other penalties.

Also, do your best not to commit another driving offense during the SR-22 period. If you do so, the SR-22 period could restart. You may also lose your insurance coverage or driving privileges.

Keep in mind, getting rid of the SR-22 shouldn’t be your only commitment. Make sure that you also meet any other penalties of your charges. Pay fines, and follow all restrictions that the authorities place on you. Most importantly, don't re-offend.

If you do have a DUI or DWI charge, then an SR-22 requirement is a strong likelihood.

Don’t cause more trouble for yourself. Avoid scenarios that could result in a DUI charge on your driving record.

Understand the Statistics of DUI Charges

The FBI estimates that around 300,000 people drive drunk every day. Police only wind up charging about 3,000 of these people. That means more than 200,000 drivers are still on the road under the influence every day. That is a statistic that should shock anyone.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that someone gets injured in a drunk driving wreck every two minutes. Twenty-seven people die each day in these accidents. That’s a high price to pay for driving under the influence.

You could face fines, license suspension, probation or even jail time if you get arrested for DUI. The law is very strict when it comes to DUI charges. The charges may even affect your car insurance coverage. You could lose coverage.

If you get arrested for drunk driving, an SR-22 requirement may be among the penalties. While an SR-22 could be the least of your worries, SR-22 requirements are often necessary. You will likely have to carry the SR-22 coverage for a number or years.

There is a simple answer to avoid these consequences, and not get an SR-22 requirement on top of them. Never drive under the influence.

How to avoid a DUI charge

The simplest way to avoid a DUI charge is to not drive under the influence. Don’t ever put your safety or the safety of others on the line. If you are going to consume, take the following steps to avoid driving.

• Take a taxi or rideshare like Uber or Lyft to and from your destinations.
• Ask a sober friend or family member to drive you.
• If you are socializing with a group of friends, appoint a designated driver. That person will remain sober and be in charge of driving.
• If you have been drinking at home, don’t venture out until you are completely sober.
• Hide your car keys or give them to a trusted companion who will not let you drive.
• Make arrangements to stay with a friend if you have been drinking at their home.
• If you have to drive, it is always best not to consume alcohol. If you choose to drink at any point, stop consuming alcohol at least an hour before you drive. An hour is the minimum amount of time you should wait. Always stop drinking well before you need to drive.
• Don’t believe urban myths. Drinking water or eating after you consume alcohol won’t sober you up in enough time to get behind the wheel.

The biggest things you should do is to be responsible. Keep safety in mind, and don’t drink and drive. It is a tried and true suggestion.

Nonetheless, the only true way to avoid driving under the influence is to not imbibe. If in doubt, follow the old mantra of just say no.