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SR-22s and Their Relationship to Driving Records

No driver is perfect, and even those who drive defensively and pay attention to their surroundings are apt to make mistakes from time to time. When we do, we might get caught, and we might have to face the consequences. These might vary from warnings to tickets, fines and even SR-22  penalties.

Though all of these penalties can cause financial hardship and an increase in your auto insurance rates, SR-22 penalties are often some of the biggest blows to your wallet. Why is this the case? What kind of penalties trigger the SR-22?

SR-22s are obvious indicators to insurers that a policyholder is a high-risk driver. Since insurers tend to offer the lowest rates to drivers who tend to have the least black marks on their records, keeping yourself free of an SR-22 penalty will be instrumentally helpful for your financial security.

Understanding The SR-22

An SR-22 on its face is simply a certificate that proves for a state’s DMV that a driver has an active car insurance policy. Most states required insurance of all drivers, and those who fail to do so will face penalties. Still, not all drivers have to carry an SR-22. The SR-22 is an added measure imposed on drivers with the highest driving risks, to ensure that they always have a policy in place.

So, what causes an SR-22 penalty to be instituted in the first place? Depending on where you live, the triggers will vary, but often include:

• Driving without insurance
• Driving on a suspended or expired license
• DUI/DWI offenses
• Multiple moving violations, such as speeding tickets

• Severe at-fault accidents

All of these issues are considered severe driving infractions in most jurisdictions. Simply put, if your actions behind the wheel show that you cannot drive safely, then you might get an SR-22. It will likely remain on your driving record for a couple of years. You must keep your policy active for the duration of the penalty period. If you ever let your coverage lapse, your state’s DMV will be notified, and you will face penalties.

It’s much easier to do all you can to avoid committing actions that could trigger an SR-22 penalty. Let’s take a closer look.

Driving Without Insurance

Since an SR-22 forces you to carry car insurance, it’s pretty obvious why you might have to get one if you fail to carry a policy in the first place. Therefore, as soon as you become a licensed driver, make sure you are covered by insurance.

Almost every state requires you to carry minimum levels of insurance. Most require liability insurance. This coverage protects other parties in the event your actions cause harm to them. Always get at least the minimum state requirements. However, consider upgrading your coverage to include higher limits and more protection.

Driving with a Suspended License

Your driver’s license might expire, or be revoked by the authorities if you commit a serious offense. If you drive without a license, then you are not supposed to be driving in the first place, and regardless of whether the vehicle is insured, an SR-22 might be instituted as part of your penalty. It will usually take effect as soon as you are re-licensed.

DUI Or DWI Offenses

As far as reckless driving goes, DUI and DWI charges are among the most dangerous acts anyone can commit. If you drive drunk (or otherwise impaired), you cannot operate a vehicle safely. You create significant security risks for everyone around you. It stands to reason, given the circumstances, that an SR-22 might result from getting caught.

Avoiding DUI charges doesn’t have to be hard. You simply shouldn’t drink and drive. Take public transportation, ride with a designated driver or make other travel arrangements. If you have even had one drink, carefully consider whether you feel safe behind the wheel. Do not risk putting yourself and others in danger.

Frequent Moving Violations

No one really wants to get a speeding ticket or similar charge. These infractions are usually relatively minor and don’t impact you forever. Yet, they sometimes can cause your auto insurance rates to rise. So, the more infractions you accumulate, the higher your likelihood of receiving an SR-22 might prove.

Severe At-Fault Accidents

When you cause an accident, you show that you have significant operating risks behind you. For example, if you run a red light and hit another car, the authorities might hold you responsible, and you might have to pay for both your own and any affected third party’s damage. Thus, the SR-22 will force you to honor your financial duty to others in case a problem occurs.

The simplest ways to avoid SR-22s are to follow the rules of the road. Don’t speed, keep your license and registration active and always carry car insurance. The more care you take when driving, the better your chances of never facing this penalty.

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