Reckless driving is one of the most common reasons for individuals to be required to obtain an SR-22 certificate. SR-22 insurance, as it is often called, is not actually insurance. If you’ve been found guilty of any type of reckless driving, the Department of Motor Vehicles may require that you obtain this certificate. What does it mean? Why do you need it? And, for many people, the big question is, how much is it going to cost?

High-Risk Drivers Put Everyone at Risk

The goal behind the SR-22 insurance certificate isn’t as complex as it may sound. The DMV views those who are involved in reckless driving, such as driving at high rates of speed, being convicted of DUI or DWI, or being involved in a significant accident that left someone else hurt or suffering loss, as high-risk drivers. This means this driver is more likely to be involved in additional high-risk situations and, as a result, is more likely to cause an additional accident. As a result, the DMV wants to make sure you have the state required liability insurance in place to protect other drivers.

Liability insurance does not protect your assets or your losses. Rather, it helps to pay the claims others make against you when you cause an accident. This is a form of auto insurance that most states require drivers to maintain. If you do not have this type of car insurance, you may not be able to legally operate a vehicle.

What Does the SR-22 Do for You?

After a reckless driving claim, this is what you can expect from SR-22 insurance requirements:

• You’ll likely be required to contact your current auto insurance carrier or a new one if you do not have one, to request this certificate. The insurer sends it directly to the DMV.
  
  
• You may likely pay more for car insurance since you have more points on your license and are a high-risk driver.
  
  
• With the SR-22 in place, the DMV can likely allow you to operate a vehicle. Restrictions may apply.
  
  
• You’ll likely need to maintain it for three years, sometimes longer.
  
  
• If you fail to maintain your liability insurance, the insurer is required by law to report this immediately to the DMV.

It’s important to maintain your SR-22 requirements if you have them. Work with your auto insurance company to get a certificate in place before you get behind the wheel.

Have questions about your policy? Call Insurance Providers at 417.862.7788 for more information on automobile insurance providers.