What is SR-22?
SR-22 is the insurance form that one is required to get if they lose a hearing at the DMV due to a DUI. “SR” means “safety responsibility” and is a form showing that you have a policy. It is not an actual policy. It is required to cover any cars that you may drive. If you drive but do not own a car, you need a Non-Owner SR-22. The form is a requirement of the DMV and not the court. It is important to remember that the proceedings for the DMV and the court are separate.
SR-22 forms are required for 3 years after you lose an administrative hearing through the DMV. You are required to get a policy and file the SR-22 to reinstate your license after the initial suspension. The policies can be expensive, so it is important that you shop around. Some people find it more cost effective to go to a company other than their insurance to make sure they get the best price.
Other Instances for SR-22
*Wet Reckless
*Involvement in an Accident While Being Uninsured
*Being Deemed a Negligent Operator
Other Insurance Consequences in addition to SR-22
*Loss of Good Driver Discount- Many insurance policies offer good driver discounts. These are discounted policies for people who have good driving records. When one gets a DUI, most insurance companies take away the good driver discount. What’s worse is that you could lose it for up to 10 years. A DUI conviction stays on your record for 10 years.
*Employer Pull Notice- Employers who enroll in the DMV’s Employer Pull Notice (EPN) will be automatically notified of their employees DUI arrest. This may affect their insurance, which could lead to loss of a job. This usually applies to professional drivers or people who have driving as a requirement of their job. (Note: if you’re a commercial driver, you could lose your license for a year)
*Moving States- If you have a SR-22 on file in California, but you move to another state, you will need to get a SR-22 in that state. At this point in time, there is no cross-state filing of the SR-22. Some states do not require SR-22 forms to be on file. You should check with the state where you are moving.
For more information from the DMV, click here.
Contact Us For a Free Consultation Regarding SR-22 and your DUI
If you have been arrested for DUI in California, and have questions about SR-22, contact the Law Office of Stephanie M. Arrache for a free consultation!