Driving is a privilege, and in Oregon, maintaining that privilege comes with the responsibility of carrying car insurance. But what happens if you get a driving violation that puts your license at risk? In some cases, the state may require you to file an SR22 certificate as proof of financial responsibility. Cheap Insurance will answer all your questions about inexpensive SR22 insurance in Oregon, including what it is, why you might need it, and the cost of SR22 insurance.
Key Takeaways:
- An SR22 filing is not extra insurance, but a form your insurer submits to show you meet Oregon’s minimum car insurance requirements.
- Driving violations like DUIs, driving without auto insurance, or accumulating points can trigger an SR22 requirement.
- The SR22 filing duration varies but typically lasts 3 years depending on the violation.
- Expect an increase cost for car insurance with an SR22, but these costs decrease over time with a clean driving record.
- Shop around for car insurance quotes, maintain a clean record, and explore discounts so you can get affordable SR22 insurance.
What is SR22 Insurance and Why Is It Needed in Oregon?
An SR22 certificate is not actually an insurance policy. It’s a financial responsibility filing submitted by your insurance company to the Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) on your behalf. This filing verifies that you maintain minimum car insurance requirements in Oregon.
There are several reasons why the Oregon DMV may require you to file an SR22:
- DUI/DUII Convictions: Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving under the influence of intoxicants (DUII) convictions are the most common reason for needing an SR22.
- Driving Without Insurance: Operating a vehicle without car insurance can lead to an SR22 requirement.
- Multiple Traffic Violations: Accumulating a high number of points on your license due to traffic violations may trigger an SR22.
- Failing to Appear in Court: If you miss a court date related to a traffic violation, the judge may order an SR22 filing to reinstate your license.
When Does Oregon Require an SR22 Filing?
The length of your SR22 filing requirement depends on the severity of the violation that caused it. Here’s a general breakdown:
DUI/DUII Convictions: In Oregon, the SR-22 filing period for a first-time DUI/DUII conviction is typically three years. Subsequent convictions may extend the SR22 filing period.
Driving Without Insurance: The SR-22 filing requirement for driving without insurance can vary depending on the circumstances. However, it usually lasts for three years.
Multiple Traffic Violations: The SR22 filing period for accumulating points typically lasts for three years.
How Much Does SR22 Insurance Cost in Oregon?
Since an SR22 is a filing, not a separate insurance policy, there isn’t a single cost associated with it. However, the filing fee charged by your insurance company might range from $15 to $50. The bigger financial impact comes from the potential increase in your car insurance.
Here’s why your car insurance rates might go up with an SR22:
- Increased Risk: Drivers who require an SR-22 are statistically considered a higher risk by insurance companies, leading to increased costs for auto insurance.
- Violation Type: The severity of the violation that triggered the SR22 requirement will increase the cost auto insurance. For example, a DUI conviction will likely result in a steeper price increase compared to driving without automobile insurance in Oregon.
While it’s difficult to pinpoint an exact cost, studies suggest that car insurance in Oregon with an SR22 can be double or even triple what you paid before the violation.
Here are some factors that can influence the cost of auto insurance with an SR22:
Driving History: A clean driving record post-violation can get you affordable insurance.
Age: Younger drivers generally pay more for car insurance, and this might be further amplified with an SR22.
Location: Auto insurance rates vary by location, so where you live in Oregon can impact your cost.
Car Type and Coverage: The type of car you drive and the level of coverage you choose will also be a factor.
Will Regular Car Insurance Rates Increase with an SR22?
Unfortunately, yes, having an SR22 filing in Oregon will likely lead to a significant increase in your car insurance rate. However, the good news is that these increases are temporary. As long as you maintain continuous insurance and a clean driving record, your auto insurance will gradually decrease over time.
Here are some tips to minimize the impact of SR22 on your car insurance rate:
- Shop Around for Inexpensive SR22 Insurance Quotes: Don’t automatically renew your auto insurance policy. Get affordable car insurance quotes from several insurance companies specializing in SR-22 filings to find the cheapest car insurance by comparing insurance quotes from companies known to offer competitive rates for SR-22 insurance. Some insurers may even specialize in high-risk drivers or possibly offer insurance for low income, if this is needed.
- Maintain a Clean Driving Record: Avoiding further traffic violations during your SR22 filing period is crucial. Any new violations can extend the filing requirement.
- Raise Your Deductible: Increasing your deductible ,the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your auto insurance policy pays for an insurance claim, can help you with getting low cost auto insurance. However, weigh the potential savings against the higher upfront cost you’ll incur in case of an accident.
- Ask About Discounts: Many insurance companies offer discounts for things like completing defensive driving courses, maintaining good grades (for young drivers), or insuring multiple vehicles. See if you qualify for any automobile insurance discounts that can help offset the SR22 cost.
Can I Get Cheap SR22 Insurance Even with a Driving Violation?
- Consider Non-Standard Insurance: If you have difficulty finding insurance through traditional insurers, explore non-standard car insurance. These companies cater to high-risk drivers and may offer more flexibility for SR22 insurance.
- Improve Your Credit Score: In Oregon, insurance companies can consider your credit score when offering a car insurance quote (with some limitations). Maintaining a good credit score can be positive for affordable auto insurance.
By understanding the SR22 filing requirements and taking proactive steps to find cheap car insurance, you can navigate this situation efficiently.
