SR-22 insurance in Ohio is a certificate of financial responsibility required for high-risk drivers in the Buckeye State by an insurance provider following a traffic violation, reckless driving, or suspended driving privileges. This comprehensive guide to SR-22 bonds in Ohio will explain high-risk car insurance, traffic offenses and license suspensions, fault accidents, and SR-22 forms. It will help you understand what an SR-22 is, who needs a SR-22 certificate, how to file one, and how to find insurers offering SR-22 filings.
Who Needs SR-22 Insurance in Ohio?
Akin to suspended license car insurance, the SR-22 requirement follows serious driving offenses such as driving under the influence (DUI), reckless driving, or driving without insurance. It shows that you have minimum liability coverage.
Common Offenses That Trigger SR-22
- A non-compliance suspension for driving without insurance triggers a one-year requirement for SR-22 bond insurance in Ohio.
- A judgment suspension following property damage also requires SR-22 filings.
- Alcohol and drug-related license suspensions will also lead to the need for SR-22 car insurance in Ohio. A DUI offense, depending on the severity, will most likely trigger an SR-22 in Ohio.
- In addition, reckless driving, fault accidents, driving that causes bodily injury, and multiple driving offenses will also result in penalties, including the need for an SR-22. Failure to pay child support can also play a role.
Drivers will also need to pay a filing fee and show proof of insurance during the application process.
How the SR-22 Process Works in Ohio
To file an SR-22 in Ohio, you can follow these steps:
- Visit the state's Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) site to determine your requirement.
- Reach out to your insurance company or another company licensed to do business in Ohio to apply for the policy.
- The insurance company will file the SR-22 with the BMV.
Filing Through Your Insurer vs. Through the State
Typically, it is advisable to file an SR-22 through an insurance company licensed to do business in Ohio, which will let the state know that you have completed this form of financial responsibility.
Required Documentation and Timelines
Ohio requires proof of continuous coverage, which your insurance company can provide. Most insurers will file the bond within three days.
How Long Do You Need to Maintain an SR-22?
Depending on the severity of the offense, you will likely need to maintain SR-22 in Ohio for one to five years. If you lack proof of insurance, for example, the requirement is one year. It can increase for subsequent or more serious offenses.
How Much Does SR-22 Insurance Cost in Ohio?
There are several fees associated with SR-22 in Ohio:
- You will pay a $25 filing fee with the Ohio BMV.
- Your insurance rates will also increase with the SR-22 requirement. Car insurance after a DUI, for example, can dramatically increase in price.
- Finally, you will pay a reinstatement fee of up to $600, again depending on the specific offense.
Where to Get SR-22 Insurance in Ohio
Looking for suspended license car insurance in Ohio?
The good news is that many well-known insurance companies are licensed to do business in Ohio and offer SR-22 certificates. These include Progressive, Liberty Mutual, and The General, among others. If you already have insurance, you can contact your insurer to determine if they offer SR-22 insurance in Ohio. You can also look into non-owner car insurance.
Consequences of Not Maintaining SR-22 Coverage
The consequences of not maintaining SR-22 coverage can be severe, including:
- License suspension and hurdles to reinstatement: SR-22 may be a condition of a valid driver's license and reinstatement. If you let it lapse, you will face the consequence of losing your license or having to wait longer for it to be reinstated.
- Restarting your SR-22 clock: If you had a three-year requirement for SR-22 insurance, for instance, and let it lapse after one year, you will need to start over again. This can be both frustrating and costly.
Ways to Save on SR-22 Insurance in Ohio
- Shop around. If you don't like the quote you get from your insurance company or the first company you contact, take the time to compare multiple quotes to find the best option for your needs and budget.
- Look into discounts. You may be able to get a discount for bundling multiple policies, such as car and home insurance.
- Update your vehicle and driving practices. You may look into a less expensive car to insure. Also, as your driving record improves, so will your insurance rates. That's why a focus on safe driving always pays off!
Get Affordable SR-22 Insurance Quotes Today
You can find affordable SR-22 insurance quotes by getting a free quote from EverQuote. It only takes a few minutes to get a custom comparison, which can highlight good insurance options for your driving needs. Insurance prices change daily, so the best way to get the right insurance for the right price is to compare and shop often.
Check out EverQuote today to save on car insurance.