SR-22 Insurance in New York: What You Need to Know and How to Get It
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Car insurance is mandatory in most states. It protects you financially from the risks of vehicle ownership, such as accidents, theft, vandalism, injuries, and other mishaps.
But, if you're considered a high-risk driver, you'll also require an SR-22 to meet your state's minimum auto insurance requirements. So, what exactly is an SR-22?
Here, we'll walk you through all the essentials you need to know about SR 22 insurance in New York.
Understanding SR-22 Insurance
The term ''SR-22 insurance'' is a misnomer. An SR-22 isn't a type of insurance. Rather, it's a form your auto insurance provider files with your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
The form proves your car insurance policy meets your state's minimum liability coverage requirements. Insurance companies often interchange the terms ''SR-22 Form,'' ''SR-22 Bond,'' or ''Certificate of Financial Responsibility'' to refer to SR-22 insurance.
Who Needs SR-22 Insurance?
New York doesn't require drivers to have SR-22 insurance. But if you're a driver in New York and relocating to a state that does, you may need an SR-22 to regain driving privileges.
Generally, a court or state may require you to file an SR-22 if you've committed certain driving infractions. Common reasons why you might need to file an SR-22 include:
- Having been convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI)
- Driving without insurance or proper insurance coverage
- Being the at-fault driver in multiple accidents
- Having been convicted of serious traffic offenses like reckless driving, speeding, or driving with a suspended license
- Committing multiple traffic violations within a short period
- Failing to pay court-ordered child support
- Having a hardship license (a limited license that allows you to drive for particular reasons, such as going to work, school, or hospital because your license has been revoked or suspended)
Requirements for Obtaining an SR-22
You must have car insurance to be eligible to get an SR-22. Even if you don't own a car, you may still require non-owner car insurance to drive rentals or borrowed vehicles.
If you don't have auto insurance or your policy doesn't provide SR-22 coverage, you must purchase an insurance policy from an insurance company that offers SR-22 coverage.
Your insurance provider will typically require the following documentation to file an SR-22 on your behalf:
- Date of birth
- Social security number
- License number and state where issued
- License suspension date
- Expiration or relief date (the date the SR-22 is no longer needed)
- Reasons why the SR-22 is required
Review the insurance requirements of your state:
Average Costs of SR-22 Insurance in New York
An SR-22 generally costs between $15 to $25 to file, though the cost may vary depending on your insurance provider. Some insurers may require you to pay the filing charge upfront, while others may add a surcharge to your premium.
Since insurers consider SR-22 drivers high-risk, they typically pay more for car insurance. On average, the cost of auto insurance in New York is $2,221 for minimum coverage.
However, with an SR-22, you'll pay more depending on your driving history, ZIP code, vehicle, insurance history, the gravity of your violation, and other factors. For instance, if you've contravened New York DUI laws or DWI laws, you'll probably pay more for your car insurance than someone who has committed a lesser offense.
Fortunately, your insurance rate may decrease over time if you maintain your car insurance and a clean driving record.
How To Secure Affordable SR-22 Insurance Rates
All car owners want affordable insurance that offers excellent coverage. While you should never compromise on quality to save on car insurance, here are some simple ways to secure affordable SR-22 insurance in New York:
Shop Around for Quotes
Never settle for the first insurance provider you come across that offers SR-22 insurance. Compare auto insurance quotes from multiple providers to get the best bang for your buck.
As a rule of thumb, experts recommend getting quotes from at least three auto insurance providers before settling for a policy. Why? Different insurers calculate insurance rates differently. So, while New York ticket violations might lead to a slight premium spike at one insurer, another might charge significantly more.
Explore Discounts and Savings Opportunities
Many New York car insurance companies offer discounts if you bundle your car insurance with another policy, such as homeowners insurance.
Besides bundling discounts, other common savings insurance providers offer include good driver discounts, student discounts, military discounts, loyalty discounts, and anti-theft discounts.
Ask your insurance agent about all the car insurance discounts you're eligible for to unlock massive savings opportunities.
The Process for Filing an SR-22
It's simple to file an SR-22. All you have to do is contact your insurance agent or provider to file it on your behalf. Afterward, your insurer will contact your local DMV to start the process.
However, if your insurer doesn't provide SR-22 filing, you may need to purchase a new policy with another insurance provider that offers SR-22 and high-risk auto insurance. To get the right coverage when shopping around for policies, inform potential insurance companies you need SR-22 insurance.
Duration for Maintaining an SR-22 in New York
Most states require motorists to maintain an SR-22 for at least three years. So long as you don't commit a serious traffic violation during those three years, you won't need to file an SR-22 after the period ends. However, your filing period may be extended if you commit another serious traffic offense before the filing period ends.
That said, there is no minimum duration for maintaining an SR-22 in New York since the state doesn't require it for high-risk motorists.
However, if you reside in New York and are convicted of a serious traffic offense in a state that does require SR-22 filing, you must file an SR-22 for the state's minimum filing period. Additionally, you must maintain the minimum auto insurance coverage required by that state.
For instance, if you live in New York but get convicted of a traffic offense in Vermont, you must maintain Vermont's minimum car insurance coverage and file an SR-22 for three years.
Conclusion: Navigating SR-22 Insurance in New York
Whether driving through the busy streets of Manhattan or cruising along the scenic New York State Thruway, having the right insurance coverage can protect you and your vehicle. However, if your driving record requires SR-22 insurance, it can be challenging to select a suitable policy.
So, if you need help determining which insurance provider offers the best value for money, get a free custom comparison quote and find cost savings on your SR-22 insurance.