You rely on your car daily. From getting to work to taking your children to school, having the ability to drive is liberating. However, getting slapped with an SR-22 requirement may have you a little nervous about your ability to continue to drive. Although the matter is serious, driving safely is your ticket to overcoming your SR-22 requirement.
Understanding the Need for SR-22 Insurance
Let's begin by understanding what an SR-22 is exactly. Most people think it's insurance, but that’s not really the case. An SR-22 is a certificate issued to you as proof of auto insurance by your insurance provider. In essence, an SR-22 certificate is your insurance provider taking financial responsibility for you, per a requirement issued to you from the courts.
The requirement to get an SR-22 is often given to drivers who have had a series of driving violations and accidents, or a significant driving violation or accident. Although you may feel your ability to drive is on the line, an SR-22 may not last long, and you still have the ability to drive; of course, you should make it a point to drive safer now.
How to Overcome Your SR-22 Requirement
It's important to keep in mind that your SR-22 certificate isn't the end of the world, nor is it the end to your ability to drive. Your SR-22 is temporary. In most places, with a great driving record and continual auto insurance, you won't have to have the certificate attached to your insurance for more than three years.
During the next three years of driving with an SR-22, it's important that you know what to do to satisfy the requirement.
- Maintain car insurance: All states require minimum liability insurance to operate a car legally. You must maintain adequate auto coverage at all times. Failing to do so may jeopardize your license.
- Drive safe: Driving safe is another way to help you eliminate the need for an SR-22. By following the speed limit and avoiding driving under the influence, you improve your chances of avoiding an accident.
- Drive defensively: You are responsible for maintaining your license and car insurance. One of the best ways to do this is to drive defensively. You should always observe your surroundings and avoid accidents.
Even though being forced to maintain an SR-22 certificate sounds scary, it doesn’t have to be. With a safe driving record and continuous insurance, you can find yourself in the clear shortly.