Driving in Texas comes with the responsibility of maintaining financial responsibility. If you’ve encountered a situation requiring an SR22 filing in Texas, understanding the true costs involved is crucial. In this article Cheap Insurance will shed light on the financial implications of SR22 insurance, going beyond the filing fees and addressing the impact on your car insurance.
Key Takeaways:
- An SR22 filing itself has a minimal cost, but the real financial impact comes from potential increases on car insurance rates.
- The severity of your violation, driving history, age, and location all influence how much your insurance rates might increase with an SR22.
- Shop around with multiple insurance companies specializing in SR22 coverage to find cheap SR22 quotes.
- Maintaining a clean driving record during the SR22 filing period can significantly improve your chances of securing the most affordable auto insurance after the requirement is lifted.
- The duration of the SR22 impact on your auto insurance depends on the violation (2 years for most, up to 7 years for DUIs) but the violation itself might be considered for a longer period.
What is an SR22 and Why Might I Need One in Texas?
An SR22 is a certificate of financial responsibility mandated by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV) in certain situations. It acts as proof that you maintain the minimum state-required car insurance liability. Here are some common reasons you might need an SR22 filing in Texas:
- Driving Without Automobile Insurance: If you were caught driving without car insurance and also have multiple excessive speeding tickets, getting your license reinstated typically requires an SR22 filing for a period of three years.
- At Fault Accidents: Being involved in an at fault accident while uninsured or with insufficient car insurance can lead to an SR22 requirement. The duration typically depends on the severity of the accident but can last up to three years.
- DUI/DWI: Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) convictions in Texas come with mandatory SR22 filings. The duration varies depending on the severity of the offense and any blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels involved. It can range from three years to a maximum of seven years.
How Much Does it Cost to File an SR22 in Texas?
The upfront cost of filing an SR22 in Texas is typically minimal. Your auto insurance company will handle the filing process on your behalf and may charge a small fee, ranging from $15 to $50. This fee covers the administrative costs associated with submitting the SR22 form to the TxDMV.
How Long Will an SR22 Affect My Car Insurance Rates in Texas?
Having an SR22 filing on your record can significantly increase your car insurance rates in Texas. Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how much your insurance rates will rise. The extent of the increase depends on several factors, including:
- The severity of your violation: A DUI conviction will likely result in a more significant increase compared to driving without auto insurance.
- Your driving history: A clean driving record before the violation can help mitigate the rate increase. This can help you get the cheapest car insurance.
- Your age and location: Younger drivers and those residing in high-risk areas typically pay more for automobile insurance, and an SR22 filing can further magnify this.
- Your car insurance company: Different insurance companies have varying risk assessment models and may price SR22 insurance differently.
Estimates suggest an average increase of $400 to $1,000 per year for auto insurance in Texas for drivers with an SR22 filing. This highlights the significant financial impact beyond the minimal filing fee.
Can I Find Affordable SR22 Insurance in Texas?
While an SR22 filing can lead to higher car insurance rates, there are steps you can take to minimize the financial burden in Texas:
- Shop Around: Get inexpensive SR22 quotes from multiple insurance companies specializing in SR22 . These companies understand the unique needs of high-risk drivers and may offer the cheapest SR22 insurance.
- Improve Your Driving Record: Focus on maintaining a clean driving record while your SR22 requirement is in effect. Any accidents or violations can further increase your insurance with SR22.
- Ask About Discounts: Many vehicle insurance companies offer discounts for completing defensive driving courses, maintaining good grades (for young drivers), or opting for features like automatic payments and paperless billing. It’s always good to check if your insurance company offers low income auto insurance.
- Consider Usage-Based Insurance: Providers offering telematics-based car insurance (also known as pay-as-you-drive) may be an option. These policies consider your driving habits (mileage, time of day, etc.) and can be the most affordable car insurance.
How Long Will an SR22 Affect My Car Insurance Rates in Texas?
The length of time an SR22 filing impacts your auto insurance rates in Texas depends on the reason you need it:
- Driving Without Insurance or At-Fault Accidents: For these violations, the SR22 filing typically remains on your record for two years. However, your auto insurance company can consider the violation itself on your record for a longer period, potentially impacting your automobile insurance rates for up to three years.
- DUI/DWI: DUI/DWI convictions carry the longest SR22 filing requirements in Texas. The duration also varies depending on the severity of the offense:
- Standard DUI: Three years from the date your license is reinstated.
- Aggravated DUI: Four years from the date of license reinstatement.
- Extreme DUI: Seven years from the date of license reinstatement.
By understanding the duration of the SR22 filing requirement and its potential impact on your auto insurance, you can plan your finances accordingly. Remember, maintaining continuous SR22 insurance throughout the mandated period is crucial to avoid license suspension and potential legal consequences.
