Different Ways To Avoid The Need For SR22 Insurance

Avoiding the Need for SR-22 Insurance

SR-22 insurance is expensive, so understandably, people want to avoid it if possible. Want to know how to get around SR-22 insurance? Here are some options to consider:

• Voluntarily discontinue driving. If you are no longer driving, then you may be able to terminate your SR-22 insurance. Even if you still own a vehicle, you will no longer be using it. Contact the Department of Motor Vehicles in your state to find out the process.

• Carpool or use public transportation. Even though you can no longer drive, you can still be a passenger in a vehicle. Consider ride sharing, carpooling, or public transportation. 

• Use non-owner car insurance. Non-owner car insurance is a type of insurance you can buy to protect you while driving a vehicle you don’t own. Since it is not usually intended for permanent use, it can be less expensive than other car insurance policies.

• Get on another driver’s policy. In some cases, sharing a vehicle with someone else may allow you to save more money on car insurance than you would if you held an SR-22 car insurance endorsement on your own. State rules about this vary, and you may be limited to immediate family members.

• Contact your state insurance agency. Some states have established public car insurance agencies. These agencies act as insurers of last resort when someone cannot afford car insurance or can’t get a private insurer to issue a policy. California is one of these states. 

• Relocate. An SR-22 insurance policy usually arises from a state court order. Any time you relocate to another state, you are expected to get a car insurance policy valid in that state. Often, this means that you could switch insurance providers and will not be liable for SR-22, but talk to a qualified attorney for more information.

• Use a vehicle that does not require insurance. No insurance needed? It may be possible. Every state has its legal definitions for seemingly simple words like “car.” Depending on the rules in your state, you may be able to use a moped, golf cart, or other type of conveyance for limited, non-highway use without having to maintain standard insurance.

• Go on vacation. Long-term travel plans are another common scenario where you may be able to temporarily suspend your car insurance without facing any penalties. While you are gone you won’t need insurance, and most countries let you drive with any valid U.S. license. Contact your insurer and the Department of Motor Vehicles to be sure.

• Argue for clemency. Even if appealing or overturning your traffic conviction was not an option, it does not always mean you have no tools at your disposal. Rather than waiting three years, you can schedule a hearing each year to argue that you are now a safe and responsible driver. The SR-22 requirement may be waived at the court’s discretion.