Need SR-22? Steps to Take
After a DUI or several major traffic violations, you should not be surprised to find out that you need SR-22 insurance. SR-22 is for high-risk drivers, and it is a necessity for many people. Without purchasing it, you might lose your driver's license. Once you find out that you need it, here are the steps you must take.
Look at the Date
The first thing to do is to find out the date that you need the policy. If you received a letter in the mail regarding this matter, it will state the deadline date. If your lawyer notified you about this, they will tell you the deadline. The deadline date matters, as you must have a plan in place by this day.
Buy a Policy
Once you know that you need SR-22 insurance, you can start searching for it. You might need to call several insurance companies to find one that offers it. Many insurance companies sell these policies, but some do not. If your current provider does not offer it, you will need to call around to find one that does. If you find several companies that offer SR-22 insurance, you can request quotes from each.
After comparing them, you can pick the company with the best rates. You must pay the required premiums to get the policy started. Once you do this, your insurance company will provide you with a letter that shows that you have coverage. You might need to bring this letter to your local Bureau of Motor Vehicles.
Pay Your Premiums
The next step to take is to pay your premiums. In most situations, people need SR-22 insurance for at least three years. If this is your requirement, you must keep the policy for the full three years without experiencing any lapses. The best way to avoid lapses is by paying your premiums before the due dates.
Complete Annual Checkups
Finally, you might want to contact your insurance company and others to check on your account each year. By doing this, you might find out that you qualify for a lower rate through your current company. You might also find competitive rates from other companies that offer SR-22 insurance.
When you need SR-22 insurance, you must buy a policy and keep it. If you follow these tips, you will eventually be able to switch to regular car insurance. If you have questions, talk to an insurance provider like Illinois Insurance Center Inc.