Getting behind the wheel in California requires car insurance, and if you’ve had a driving violation that necessitates an SR22 filing, you might be wondering how much this affects your insurance costs. Cheap Insurance will delve into the world of SR22 insurance in California, exploring average costs, factors influencing rates, and strategies for finding inexpensive SR22 insurance quotes without compromising coverage.
Key Takeaways:
- SR22 itself isn’t extra insurance; it’s a filing showing you maintain minimum car insurance in California.
- Factors like the reason for needing SR22, driving history, and location significantly impact your cost.
- Shop around for SR22 insurance quotes, maintain a clean driving record, and consider bundling policies to find cheaper SR22 insurance quotes.
- Prioritize adequate coverage; choose a reputable insurer with good customer service.
How Much More Does SR22 Insurance Cost in California?Â
SR22 itself isn’t a separate insurance type, it’s a filing with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that proves you maintain the minimum required car insurance in California. However, having an SR22 requirement often leads to a higher cost for insurance.
In California, according to Bankrate, drivers without an SR22 typically pay an average of $2,692 per year for full coverage auto insurance. When you get a DUI and have to get an SR22 in California, you can expect to pay $6,128 for full coverage car insurance, which is a 127% increase.Â
What Factors Affect the Cost of Inexpensive SR22 Insurance?
The reason you need SR22. DUIs, driving without insurance, or multiple traffic violations can all trigger an SR22 requirement. The severity of the offense will significantly impact the cost of car insurance in California. DUIs in California typically lead to a high SR22 insurance cost.
Clean driving records with no accidents or violations for an extended period generally qualify for lower priced auto insurance. Recent violations or accidents will increase the price of insurance.
Younger drivers (under 25) and those with less driving experience typically pay more for car insurance, and an SR22 adds another layer of risk in their eyes.
Insurance rates vary depending on zip code. Areas with higher accident rates or theft typically pay more for insurance in California.
Different carriers offer varying rates with or without SR22 filings. Shopping around for SR22 car insurance quotes can help you find the most affordable insurance option.
Minimum liability coverage is required, but adding comprehensive and collision coverage will increase the cost of auto insurance.
Are There Ways to Get Cheaper SR22 Insurance Quotes?
Finding inexpensive SR22 insurance quotes in California requires a proactive approach.Â
Shop around and compare inexpensive SR22 insurance quotes. Get SR22 insurance quotes from multiple insurers, including major companies and smaller regional players specializing in high-risk drivers.
Maintain a clean driving record. While past offenses might have triggered the SR22 requirement, avoiding further violations can significantly improve your chances for cheap SR22 insurance.
Increase your deductible. A higher deductible lowers the cost for SR22 insurance, but requires you to pay more out of pocket if you file a claim.
Bundle your insurance. If you have other insurance policies like renters insurance or home insurance with the same company, you may qualify for bundling discounts.
Consider non-owner SR22 insurance. If you don’t own a car but need to reinstate your license, non-owner SR22 insurance is a cheaper option that proves you can maintain liability coverage when driving someone else’s car. There are non standard car insurance companies that offer this type of coverage.
Is Inexpensive SR22 Insurance a Sign of Lower Coverage?
While finding affordable SR22 insurance is important, it shouldn’t come at the expense of adequate coverage.
Minimum required Coverage vs. Comprehensive coverage. California requires minimum liability coverage for SR22 insurance. However, comprehensive and collision coverage is needed if your car is financed, or has value, for protection in case of theft, vandalism, or accidents.
While SR22 insurance often leads to a higher cost of insurance, there are ways to find cheap SR22 insurance quotes in California. By understanding the factors influencing your rate, taking steps to improve your driving record, and comparing car insurance quotes carefully, you can secure affordable SR22 car insurance without sacrificing necessary coverage. Choose a reputable insurer with a good claims process to ensure you’re protected financially in case of an accident.
