If you are a driver in South Carolina who has been convicted of certain traffic violations, you may find yourself required to carry an SR22 insurance policy. This type of coverage is often referred to as high-risk auto insurance or a certificate of financial responsibility. The purpose of an SR22 is to prove that you have the minimum amount of coverage required by law and that you will maintain that coverage for a specified period of time. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of SR22 insurance in South Carolina, including what it is, who needs it, and how to obtain it.
What is SR22 Insurance?
SR22 insurance is a type of auto insurance policy that is specifically designed for drivers who are considered high-risk. The “SR” in SR22 stands for “Safety Responsibility.” This means that if you are required to carry an SR22, you must demonstrate that you have the financial means to cover any damages or injuries you may cause in an accident. In essence, an SR22 is a certificate that proves you have the minimum amount of liability insurance required by law.
There are several reasons why a driver in South Carolina may be required to carry an SR22 insurance policy. These include:
Reason for SR22 Requirement |
Description |
|---|---|
DUI/DWI Conviction |
If you are convicted of driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI), you will likely be required to carry an SR22 for a period of time determined by the court. |
Major Traffic Violations |
If you are convicted of a major traffic offense, such as reckless driving or leaving the scene of an accident, you may be required to carry an SR22 for a specified period of time. |
Driving Without Insurance |
If you are caught driving without insurance, you may be required to carry an SR22 for a specified period of time in order to prove that you are now insured. |
DUI/DWI Convictions and SR22 Insurance in South Carolina
One of the most common reasons for being required to carry an SR22 in South Carolina is a DUI or DWI conviction. In this state, a first-time DUI conviction can result in fines, license suspension, and even jail time. Depending on the circumstances of your conviction, you may be required to carry an SR22 for up to three years.
It’s important to note that an SR22 is not the same as car insurance. Rather, it is a certificate that proves you have the minimum amount of insurance required by South Carolina law. The SR22 must be filed by your insurance provider with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). If your policy is cancelled or lapses for any reason, your insurance provider is required to notify the DMV immediately.
Major Traffic Violations and SR22 Insurance in South Carolina
Another reason for being required to carry an SR22 in South Carolina is a major traffic violation. These types of violations include reckless driving, hit-and-run accidents, and other serious offenses. If you are convicted of a major traffic violation, you may be required to carry an SR22 for a period of time determined by the court.
It’s important to note that the length of time you are required to carry an SR22 will vary depending on the severity of your conviction. For example, a first-time reckless driving conviction may result in a six-month SR22 requirement, while a hit-and-run conviction may require you to carry an SR22 for up to three years.
Driving Without Insurance and SR22 Insurance in South Carolina
If you are caught driving without insurance in South Carolina, you may be required to carry an SR22 for a specified period of time in order to prove that you are now insured. This is because South Carolina law requires all drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance in order to legally operate a motor vehicle.
It’s important to note that if you are required to carry an SR22 due to a lack of insurance, you may also be subject to fines and other penalties. Additionally, if you are involved in an accident while driving without insurance, you may be personally liable for any damages or injuries that occur. This can be a costly mistake.
How to Obtain SR22 Insurance in South Carolina
If you are required to carry an SR22 insurance policy in South Carolina, there are a few steps you will need to take in order to obtain coverage:
Step 1: Contact an Insurance Provider
The first step in obtaining an SR22 policy is to contact an insurance provider that offers this type of coverage. Not all insurance companies offer SR22 insurance, so it’s important to do your research and find a provider that does.
Step 2: Provide Required Information
Once you’ve identified an insurance provider that offers SR22 coverage, you will need to provide certain information, including your driver’s license number, date of birth, and social security number. You will also need to provide information about the violation that led to the SR22 requirement, such as the date of the offense and the court that issued the requirement.
Step 3: Purchase Coverage
Once you’ve provided all of the necessary information, you can purchase your SR22 policy. It’s important to note that SR22 policies are typically more expensive than standard auto insurance policies, so you can expect to pay more for this type of coverage.
It’s also worth noting that if you fail to maintain your SR22 policy for the entire period of time required by law, your license may be suspended or revoked. Additionally, if your policy is cancelled or lapses for any reason, your insurance provider is required to notify the South Carolina DMV immediately.
FAQs About SR22 Insurance in South Carolina
1. How long do I need to carry an SR22 in South Carolina?
The length of time you will need to carry an SR22 in South Carolina will depend on the severity of your offense. For example, a first-time DUI conviction may require you to carry an SR22 for up to three years, while a hit-and-run conviction may require you to carry an SR22 for up to five years. Once the required period of time has passed, you may be able to remove the SR22 requirement from your policy.
2. How much does SR22 insurance cost in South Carolina?
SR22 insurance policies are typically more expensive than standard auto insurance policies. The exact cost will depend on a variety of factors, including your driving history and the severity of your offense. It’s best to contact an insurance provider directly to get a quote for your specific situation.
3. Can I get an SR22 policy if I don’t own a car?
Yes, you can still obtain an SR22 policy even if you don’t own a car. This is known as non-owner SR22 insurance. It provides liability coverage for accidents that occur while you are driving a vehicle that you do not own.
4. Can I switch insurance providers while carrying an SR22 in South Carolina?
Yes, you are allowed to switch insurance providers while carrying an SR22 in South Carolina. However, it’s important to ensure that your new provider is able to file the SR22 with the South Carolina DMV before cancelling your current policy.
5. What happens if I don’t carry an SR22 when required by law?
If you are required to carry an SR22 and fail to do so, your license may be suspended or revoked. Additionally, if you are caught driving without an SR22, you may be subject to fines, additional penalties, and even jail time.
Conclusion
If you are a driver in South Carolina who has been convicted of certain traffic violations, you may be required to carry an SR22 insurance policy. While this type of coverage can be more expensive than standard auto insurance, it’s important to comply with the requirements set forth by the court and South Carolina DMV in order to maintain your driving privileges. If you have any questions about SR22 insurance or how to obtain coverage, be sure to contact a qualified insurance professional.