SR22 insurance is crucial for many Florida drivers. However, since it’s not a standard insurance policy, some drivers either don’t know it exists or don’t know how to get started with it.
Today, we’re going to briefly go over what SR22 insurance is and walk you through how to get SR22 insurance in Florida step by step to ensure you’re covered.
What is SR22 Insurance?
First, SR22 insurance isn’t actually an insurance policy itself. So what is SR22 insurance? It’s technically a form that an insurance provider fills out showing that you meet all insurance requirements required by law to have your license reinstated.
So, Who is SR22 Insurance for?
Essentially, anyone who has lost their driving privileges due to DUI, being at fault in a serious accident, or similar reasons, needs to have an SR22 insurance policy before they can regain their driving privileges.
This special policy has somewhat heavy restrictions, costs a bit more than normal, and is more difficult to get, but it does two things.
Importance of SR22 Insurance in Florida
The importance of SR22 insurance is that it provides a way for high-risk drivers to get back on the road after such a major violation. You have to have insurance to drive, and it’s a requirement to have it before you get your driving privileges back, but you’re a high-risk client to insurance companies and unlikely to get a normal plan. Thus, SR22 is designed to give you an option.
However, it also helps you repair your record. You stay on an SR22 plan for a few short years, and when you complete that requirement, your record is a lot more appealing to insurance providers. It helps you earn back trust so you can participate in the larger insurance market again.
SR22 insurance isn’t anyone’s favorite insurance, but it serves a very real purpose, and if you have lost your driving privileges, it’s a must-have policy.
Getting SR22 Insurance in Florida
Getting SR22 insurance in Florida isn’t actually a complicated process. There are just a couple of added steps compared to getting a normal plan.
The issue is finding a policy that meets SR22 legal requirements with such a major infraction on your record.
Here are the steps you need to take.
1. Find a Provider
First, you have to find a provider who is even willing to work with you. SR22 has some pretty hefty requirements for it to be accepted by the state, and it’s for high-risk drivers. Most insurance companies avoid high-risk clients.
It isn’t too complicated, though. A quick Google search or following our advice later will help you find a suitable provider in no time. No matter if you are looking for an SR22 insurance provider in Miami, Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, or Fort Lauderdale, there are options available. Be sure to explore providers in your area and check their reviews before making a decision.
2. Ask for SR22-Compliant Insurance
Once you find an insurance provider willing to take on high-risk clients, you need to ask for help buying a policy that meets SR22 requirements. Simply finding one that you think fits the bill is a bad idea. The regulations are strict, and if you get it wrong, there can be serious consequences.
Luckily, an insurance provider working with high-risk clients fully understands the requirements, and they can point you toward the perfect policy for you.
It won’t be an optimal policy compared to what you normally get, but it will meet the requirements, and it’s only temporary.
3. Purchase Your SR22-Compliant Policy and Send Off Form
After you speak with the insurance provider and find a policy that meets your needs, the next logical step is to enroll in that policy and pay for insurance.
Unfortunately, you’re not done there. This is when the SR22 part of your car insurance comes into play.
When you purchase your policy, you have to request that the insurance provider fill out an SR22 form and send it to the DHSMV in Florida. This is essentially your insurance provider showing that the policy meets the SR22 standards and that they are providing you with a compliant policy. Without this form being sent off, you just have a high-risk insurance policy, and you’re not meeting the requirements to have your license reinstated. This is your proof of insurance in your situation.
Also, keep in mind that the SR22 isn’t part of the insurance payment. You are charged separately to file the SR22 form. The cost will vary from provider to provider, but you can always ask upfront before committing to the policy.
Also read: 5 Insurance Benefits You Need to Know About
What to Do if You Have Insurance Already
Typically, if you end up needing an SR22 policy, you likely already lost any other insurance plan you had. However, it is possible that you already have a policy.
In that event, you have a couple of things to do.
First, you have to make sure your existing policy complies with SR22 requirements. If it doesn’t, it won’t help you, and you’ll need to get another policy. If it does, you can move on to the next step.
If your policy is compliant, you simply ask your insurance provider to send the SR22 form to the DHSMV of Florida, and you pay the required fees for the SR22.
Is It Worth Getting SR22 Insurance?
SR22 insurance isn’t optional if you want to drive after having your license suspended. You have to get it.
It is worth it, though. You could always adjust your life to go without driving, but that puts you at a massive disadvantage in almost every part of your life. Whether it means you can’t drive back and forth to work or you’re relying on public transportation to get your groceries, it’s a huge hassle.
On top of that, choosing to drive without SR22 can lead to further legal issues beyond a suspended license.
If you’re one of the Florida residents that SR22 is meant for, it is always worth it to get your policy as soon as possible.
Get Help Getting Your SR22 Insurance Policy
If you’re feeling overwhelmed about securing SR22 insurance in Florida, you’re not alone. The process can feel stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. By working with an experienced provider, you can navigate the process with ease and get back on the road as soon as possible.
Whether you’re in Orlando, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or anywhere else in Florida, SR22 insurance requirements remain the same. At SR22 Direct, we specialize in helping high-risk drivers find policies that meet SR22 requirements. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you have the coverage you need to reinstate your license and regain your independence.Take the first step toward getting back behind the wheel. Contact us today and let us help you secure the SR22 insurance policy that’s right for you.
