03 March 2010

SR-22 Insurance California 101

California Insurance Proof Certificate

SR22 insurance refers to a policy which requires the filing of an SR22 form. If you have to provide a proof of financial responsibility, your insurance company is obliged by law to submit such a form to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Note that a copy of your insurance or your insurance card can not replace an SR22 form and will not be accepted by the DMV as a sufficient evidence.

The minimum liability insurance requirements in California are:

* $15,000 for injury/death to one person
* $30,000 for injury/death to more than one person
* $5,000 for damage to property

Who needs SR22 Insurance in California?

There are two main reasons why you may be required to file a SR22 form. Driving under the influence (DUI) is the most common one. Causing an accident while driving uninsured is the other.Both reasons will mean that your driving license will be suspended. California's auto insurance law is one of the toughest in the country. Apart from taking part in a DUI program, a DUI conviction may mean a jail sentence too. One year without a license is the penalty for driving uninsured.

What is the SR22 filling period?

You will have to maintain a proof of financial responsibility for three years. You will have to pay a fine in order to get your license reinstated. During this period you will consider you to be a "high-risk" driver.If your filling period expires or your auto insurance in cancelled, the DMV will be notified by your insurance company. If you let your insurance lapse during these 3 years and SR26 form is submitted, your license will be suspended by the DMV.

Another important point is that California SR22 insurance is only valid for CA, because SR22 is state specific. If you move to another state, you will have to obtain another policy.

The sad reality is that due to SR22, your insurance premiums will go up. Shopping around for the cheapest option is your only choice.

For more information about SR22, please visit:
SR22 Form
SR22 Insurance

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