Hitting the road in Louisiana requires following the rules and maintaining car insurance. But what happens if you encounter a situation where your license gets suspended and requires reinstatement? This is where SR22 insurance comes in. Cheap Insurance serves as your guide to understanding SR22 insurance in Louisiana, including its purpose, and ways to reduce the cost.
Key Takeaways:
- SR22 insurance is a filing showing you meet Louisiana’s minimum car insurance requirements.
- It’s often needed after license suspension due to factors like DUIs or driving without car insurance.
- The cost of SR22 insurance varies based on driving record, the type of violation, and the SR22 filing duration.
- Shopping around for inexpensive SR22 insurance quotes and maintaining a clean record can help you find affordable SR22 insurance.
- Explore options like raising deductibles (if comfortable) to get lower cost of SR22 insurance.
What is SR22 Insurance and Why is it Needed in Louisiana?
SR22 insurance, also known as a certificate of financial responsibility, is not a separate type of car insurance. It’s a document filed by auto insurance carriers with the Louisiana Department of Public Safety (LA DPS). This filing serves as proof that you maintain the minimum liability car insurance in Louisiana.
Who Needs SR22 Insurance in Louisiana?
Several situations can lead to needing SR22 insurance in Louisiana:
Driving Without Auto Insurance: Operating a vehicle without proper insurance can result in a license suspension. To reinstate a license, you’ll likely need to file an SR22 for a specific period (typically 3 years).
DUI/DWI Convictions: A DUI/DWI conviction often comes with a license suspension and an SR22 filing requirement. The duration of the SR22 requirement varies depending on the severity of the offense.
Unpaid Judgments: Outstanding judgments related to accidents or traffic violations, an SR22 filing might be mandatory to regain driving privileges.
Frequent Traffic Violations: A history of accumulating points due to traffic violations can lead to an SR22 requirement as a way to demonstrate responsible driving behavior.
How Much Does SR22 Insurance Cost in Louisiana?
The cost of SR22 insurance in Louisiana varies depending on several factors. Here’s a breakdown:
- Baseline Cost: Generally, expect an additional $120 to $250 per year added to an existing car insurance policy to cover the cost of the SR22.
- Driving Record: Drivers with a clean record or minor violations might see a smaller increase in their insurance compared to those with DUIs, multiple violations, or accidents.
- Insurance Company: Different insurance carries have varying pricing structures. Some might offer affordable car insurance with an SR22.
Average Costs: While exact figures can vary, industry data suggests an average annual cost increase of around $1,294 for car insurance with an SR22 in Louisiana. This reflects the combined cost of current auto insurance and the SR22 filing fee.
Are There Ways to Lower the Cost of SR22 Insurance in Louisiana?
While an SR22 filing adds to an insurance cost, here are some strategies to lower the overall expense:
- Shop Around and Compare Inexpensive SR22 Insurance Quotes: Compare car insurance quotes from different carriers specializing in SR22 car insurance. Some companies cater to high-risk drivers and can offer cheap SR22 insurance.
- Maintain a Clean Driving Record: Avoiding future traffic violations or accidents during the SR22 filing period can demonstrate responsible driving and lead to inexpensive car insurance when the SR22 requirement ends.
- Ask About Good Driver Discounts: Certain insurance carriers might offer discounts for a good driving history, or for other proactive items, such as completing defensive driving courses. While not guaranteed, these courses can sometimes lead to lower auto insurance with an SR22.
- Consider Raising Your Deductible: Increasing a deductible (the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance) can result in getting cheap car insurance. However, weigh the savings against the financial burden of a higher deductible in case of an accident.
What Factors Affect the Cost of SR22 Insurance in Louisiana?
Driving Record: This is the most significant factor. A clean record with no accidents, DUIs, or frequent violations will lead to a lower SR22 filing fee and low cost car insurance. Conversely, a history of driving infractions or a serious offense like a DUI can significantly increase the cost of SR22 auto insurance.
Type of Violation: The nature of the violation that triggered the SR22 requirement also plays a role. A DUI will result in a higher cost of insurance than in a situation involving driving without automobile insurance.
Length of SR22 Filing: The duration of the SR22 requirement in Louisiana typically ranges from 3 to 5 years, depending on the offense. A longer filing period might translate to a higher overall insurance cost.
Age and Experience: Younger drivers with less experience are generally considered higher risk by insurance companies, leading to higher SR22 insurance costs.
Credit History: While not the main factor, some insurance carriers consider credit history when giving auto insurance quotes. A good credit score can translate to a slight discount on SR22 auto insurance.
Vehicle Type: The type of vehicle you drive (e.g., sports car vs. sedan) can influence your car insurance, which in turn affects the overall cost with SR22 insurance.
Getting an SR22 Quote in Louisiana: What to Expect
The process of obtaining an SR22 quote in Louisiana is relatively straightforward:
- Gather Information: Have your driver’s license number, vehicle information, and details about the reason for needing SR22 insurance readily available.
- Contact Insurance Companies: Reach out to multiple insurance carriers offering SR22 insurance in Louisiana. You can request vehicle insurance quotes online, by phone, or directly through an insurance agent.
- Provide Information: Be prepared to answer questions about your driving history, any violations, and the duration of the SR22 requirement.
In conclusion, SR22 insurance helps regain driving privileges in Louisiana. Understanding the cost factors and shopping around for SR22 insurance quotes empowers you to find affordable insurance. Maintain a clean record, explore cost saving options, and drive responsibly to navigate the SR22 auto insurance requirement effectively. Safe driving!
