If you’ve been driving in Montana and run into some trouble that requires an SR22 filing, you’re likely wondering how much it will cost you. An SR22 isn’t exactly cheap, but the good news is it’s not that expensive either. Cheap Insurance will break down the costs associated with SR22 insurance in Montana, explain what SR22 insurance is and why you might need it, and explore the factors that can affect the costs on your car insurance in Montana.
Key Takeaways:
- An SR22 filing is not a separate insurance policy but an endorsement on your existing car insurance that proves you meet the state’s minimum liability coverage requirements.
- The cost of SR22 insurance in Montana varies but typically ranges from $452 to $1,588 per year.
- Factors affecting your SR22 insurance cost include the severity of your violation, driving history, age, location, and chosen insurance company.
- The SR22 filing itself doesn’t stay on your record, but the underlying violation will for a state-mandated period (typically 3 years for DUI/DWI and driving without insurance).
- You can potentially lower your SR22 insurance cost by shopping around, maintaining a clean driving record, and exploring available discounts.
What is SR22 Insurance and Why Do I Need It in Montana?
An SR22 insurance filing is not a separate type of insurance, but rather a financial responsibility endorsement attached to your standard car insurance policy. It acts as a guarantee to the state of Montana that you will maintain the minimum required car insurance coverage for a designated period. This is typically mandated following certain driving violations or offenses.
Here are some common reasons why you might need an SR22 filing in Montana:
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
- Driving without insurance
- Multiple traffic violations
- Failing to appear in court for a traffic violation
If you’ve committed any of these offenses, the Montana Department of Motor Vehicles (MT DMV) may require you to file an SR22 certificate with your insurance company. This ensures you carry the minimum required liability auto insurance coverage throughout the filing period.
How Much Does SR22 Insurance Typically Cost in Montana?
The cost of SR22 insurance in Montana can vary depending on several factors, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $452 to $1,588 per year, on average. This translates to a monthly range of $38 to $132. It’s important to note that this is just an estimate, and your actual cost could be higher or lower depending on your specific situation.
What Factors Affect the Cost of My SR22 Insurance in Montana?
Several factors can influence how much you’ll pay for SR22 insurance in Montana. Here are some of the key considerations:
The severity of your driving violation: More serious offenses, like DUIs, will typically lead to higher SR22 insurance costs compared to minor infractions.
Your driving history: Drivers with a history of accidents, tickets, or other violations will likely pay more for SR22 insurance than those with clean driving records.
Your age: Younger drivers statistically pose a higher risk to insurance companies, so they can expect to pay more for SR22 coverage.
Your location: Insurance rates can vary depending on your zip code. Typically, rates are higher in urban areas compared to rural areas.
Your insurance company: Different insurance companies have different pricing structures, so it’s important to shop around and compare car insurance quotes from multiple providers.
The type of car insurance coverage you choose: Opting for higher liability coverage limits or adding comprehensive and collision coverage will increase your overall insurance premium, including the SR22 filing fee.
How long does an SR22 stay on my driving record?
An SR22 filing itself doesn’t stay on your driving record. However, the underlying violation that triggered the SR22 requirement will remain on your record for a specific period mandated by the state.
The MT DMV typically requires SR22 filings for:
Three years following a DUI/DWI conviction
Three years following driving without insurance
Varying lengths depending on the severity of other traffic violations
It’s important to maintain the SR22 filing with your car insurance for the entire period mandated by the state. Failing to do so could result in your driver’s license suspension.
How Long Will I Need to Maintain SR22 Insurance in Montana?
Continuing from the previous section, as mentioned, the required SR22 filing period in Montana hinges on the specific violation that triggered it. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
DUI/DWI: In most DUI/DWI cases, the MT DMV mandates an SR22 filing for three years from the date of suspension or conviction.
Driving Without Insurance: If you were caught driving without insurance, you’ll likely need to maintain SR22 insurance for three years as well.
Other Violations: The duration for SR22 filing requirements can vary depending on the nature of your traffic violation. Some minor infractions might only require an SR22 filing for a year, while more serious offenses could extend the requirement to five years.
Important Tips for Reducing Your SR22 Insurance Cost in Montana
While SR22 insurance adds an extra layer of cost to your car insurance, there are steps you can take to potentially lower your premium:
- Shop around and compare inexpensive SR22 quotes: Don’t settle for the first quote you receive. Get quotes from multiple insurance companies specializing in high-risk drivers to find the cheapest car insurance.
- Maintain a clean driving record: Avoiding further traffic violations during your SR22 filing period can demonstrate responsibility and potentially lead to lower rates when the requirement is lifted.
- Take advantage of discounts: Many insurance companies offer discounts for things like completing defensive driving courses, maintaining good grades if you’re a student, or bundling your car insurance with other policies like homeowners insurance.
SR22 insurance can be an essential step towards regaining driving privileges in Montana after a violation. By understanding the costs associated with SR22 insurance, the factors that affect your premium, and the required filing period, you can make informed decisions and potentially minimize the financial impact. Remember, shopping around and maintaining a clean driving record are key strategies for securing the most affordable SR22 insurance quotes.
