WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21, 2017
 If you've received an SR-22, you might see changes in your car insurance coverage.
It is easy to understand why SR-22 requirements can be a bit of a hassle. An SR-22 status indicates you are a high-risk driver, so SR-22 requirements help protect other drivers and insurers from the enhanced risk you present.
SR-22s are certificates that verify for your state DMV that you have car insurance. Keep in mind, they are not insurance policies themselves. State authorities require you to get SR-22 certificates after a variety of violations. These can include DUI/DWI, multiple tickets, accidents, and driving without insurance. Exact charges vary by location.
You usually have to carry an SR-22 policy for about two years. But, there is a catch. If you commit another violation while you have the SR-22 in place, the penalty period might start over. Therefore, your goal should be to avoid further driving infractions.
If you become a better driver, you reduce your risks while on the road. Reducing your driving risks not only makes you safer; it also makes you less risky to insure. Plus, if drive safer, you might see a reduction in your car insurance rates after your SR-22 expires.
Therefore, keep these tips in mind to become a safer driver.
Follow Your SR-22 to the Letter of the Law
During an SR-22 period, you'll likely have a very short leash on your driving record. Failing to maintain your SR-22 means you might face harsher penalties if you commit new driving offenses.
It is imperative that you follow the legal requirements of your SR-22 certificate.
- Keep an active car insurance policy for the duration of your SR-22 period. Some insurance companies do not issue policies that cover SR-22 risks. You might have to buy a new policy to make sure you still have adequate coverage.
- Do not allow your policy to lapse for any reason. Lapses could lead to severe penalties. These may include a re-start of your SR-22 period or higher premiums. Pay your policy premiums on time. If you move or buy a new car, immediately update your insurance coverage to reflect the changes.
- Make sure your policy follows all state insurance requirements. Most states require their drivers to carry minimum levels of liability insurance. Minimum insurance requirements often apply, regardless of whether drivers have an SR-22 or not. Adjust your coverage levels to adequately protect your risks.
Furthermore, answer to all other penalties related to your driving infractions. Pay your fines, and attend all required court hearings. Work with other parties involved in the incident to make sure you properly address their needs.
Take a Driving Course
SR-22 requirements stem from your classification as a high-risk driver. Therefore, it is a good idea to focus on improving your driving habits while you have an SR-22 in place.
There are many ways to improve your driving. One such way is to follow the rules of the road. Refraining from speeding, obeying traffic signals, and continually keeping an eye out for pedestrians are all safe driving essentials.
However, another way to improve your driving is to brush up on your technical skills. Consider taking a defensive driving course to improve your abilities on the road. Defensive driving courses can help instill safe driving habits by increasing your awareness of common road hazards and safe driving practices.
These classes provide a lot of benefits. Sometimes, car insurance companies offer discounts for drivers who pass a defensive driving class. So, completing a course might help you save on coverage.
Check Your Car
It's important to inspect your car before you hit the road and keep up with maintenance regularly. Drivers who are negligent at maintaining their cars are usually high risks. After all, there is always a chance that an undetected problem in your vehicle could cause a problem on the road.
Here's an example: Let's say you don't check your tires often, and one of them has corroded treads. Low treads make it harder for a car to grip the road and brake. While driving, you could lose control and strike another car. You might be deemed at-fault for the accident because you were the one who lost control and struck the other car. This could lead to insurance penalties — which could be severe if you already have an SR-22 on your record.
Therefore, a great way to improve your driving practices is to keep your car in good working order.
Getting rid of your SR-22 penalty requires you to work at becoming a better driver. Taking steps to improve your driving, enhance your insurance coverage and maintain your vehicle is essential.
Auto Insurance Discounters has you covered. Call us at (866) 288-6545 for a free SR-22 insurance quote.
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