SR-22 is not a type of insurance. Instead, it is a document showing that you meet Georgia’s minimum requirements for driver’s insurance coverage. A more accurate term for it is “Certificate of Financial Responsibility.”
Not all drivers are required to have this certification. It is usually only required for people who have committed traffic violations. Since this may indicate that you are a risky driver, the state may require an SR-22, which your insurance company files with the Georgia Department of Driver Services.
When SR-22 Insurance Certification is Required
A court or the Georgia Department of Driver Services can inform you of the need for SR-22 insurance certification. There are several reasons why you may be required to request an SR-22 from your insurance company. For example:
- You have convictions for driving under the influence
- You have accumulated several traffic violations within a short time
- You have been convicted of negligent or reckless driving
- You were identified as an uninsured motorist, for example, in a car crash
- Your driver’s license was suspended, and you are applying for reinstatement
You would generally be required to have an SR-22 for three years. If you cancel your policy or allow it to lapse, your insurance company must inform the authorities. If you do not maintain SR-22 insurance for the required period, penalties will be imposed. For example, your license may be suspended.
What is the Minimum Coverage to Qualify For SR-22 Insurance in Georgia?
Georgia requires motorists to have a specific minimum level of insurance. It is advisable to have additional coverage, but if you prefer to stick to the lowest requirement, it is currently set at:
- $25,000 for bodily injury liability
- $50,000 for bodily injury liability per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
You may be required to have SR-22 insurance even if you do not own a car. For instance, if you sometimes use a borrowed or hired car, you can still be required to provide this official certificate as evidence of adequate insurance coverage.
Insurance Companies and SR-22 Insurance
The SR-22 filing cost is not particularly high, but there may be several complications. Your insurance company is entitled to refuse to issue one. In that case, you will need to find another company that is willing to insure you and provide the SR-22.
You may also find that being required to have SR-22 insurance increases your premiums. Insurance companies set premiums based on risk. Being required to have a certificate of financial responsibility indicates that you have a history of risky driving.
What is The Difference Between SR-22 Insurance and SR-22A Insurance?
An SR-22A is similar to SR-22 insurance. However, it is more stringent and is usually required after multiple violations. While you can still pay your premiums on a monthly basis when SR-22 Insurance is required, the SR-22A means you must pay your insurance in advance for a specific period, usually 6 months.
What to Do If You Are At Risk of an SR-22 Requirement
Being required to have an SR-22 is likely to prove costly. It also labels you as a risky driver. Although you may fear that courts are likely to require an SR-22, there are circumstances where a lawyer can help.
For example, if you have been accused of DUI, that is a serious offense, and SR-22 insurance requirements may be the least of your woes. You should get a strong DUI lawyer in Newnan to represent you. They may be able to present a strong enough case that your charges are dismissed.
Call Us About Your Georgia SR-22 Insurance Concerns
At Kam, Ebersbach & Lewis P.C., our lawyers can assist with many aspects related to SR-22 insurance in Georgia. Apart from representing you in cases involving serious traffic infractions, such as DUIs, we may also be able to assist you in negotiations with insurance companies. Our team of experienced lawyers can also help with driver’s license reinstatement. Fill out our contact form or call us at (770) 251-7100 to learn more.