SR-22 Insurance Claims: How Car Accidents Affect Your Coverage
Learn about SR-22 insurance after accidents, including potential license suspension, insurance non-renewal and premium changes.
Key Takeaways:
- Insurers consider SR-22 drivers high risk. After an at-fault accident, insurers may refuse to renew your policy or raise your auto insurance premiums.
- If you cause a car accident, you may have an extended SR-22 filing period, and serious violations could result in your license being suspended until you meet all compliance requirements.
- Reporting the accident promptly, gathering documentation, and maintaining continuous coverage are essential to staying compliant with SR-22 rules.
A car accident shakes things up for anyone with auto insurance, leaving you to sort through claims, repair bills, and worry about rising premiums. But if you have an SR-22 filing, an accident can set off a disruptive chain of complications that may be tougher to untangle. Suddenly, you face stricter reviews and fresh hurdles that come with being branded a high-risk driver long before the accident in question happened.
A car accident with SR-22 coverage can impact your ongoing auto insurance policy, premiums, and license. Insurance companies are more likely to scrutinize your driving record at renewal after a crash with SR-22 insurance, but there is hope and help no matter your situation.
This blog is for informational purposes only and is not to be used as legal advice. If you have immediate questions about SR-22 insurance, call a Breathe Easy Insurance Solutions licensed agent at (833) 786-0237.
How a Car Accident Affects Drivers with SR-22 Insurance
If you’re working to overcome a DUI violation or similar situation, you may be required to file an SR-22 which is a certificate that proves you have a certain level of car insurance coverage. When required to get an SR-22, your insurance company files it with your state monitoring agency, like the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), to confirm you meet the minimum insurance requirements. Without an SR-22, you might not be able to reinstate a suspended license or fulfill other legal obligations related to driving privileges.
If you crash with SR-22 insurance, the severity of the accident, the state's rules, and the specifics of your SR-22 filing could influence your insurance and legal standing.
Risk of Policy Non-Renewal
Insurance providers view drivers with SR-22 filing requirements as high risk - not because of the SR-22 but because of the underlying issue that led to your SR-22 requirement. After a car accident, there's an increased chance your insurer may refuse to renew your coverage. Insurers may reassess your risk profile, especially if the accident involves alcohol, injuries, or property damage. Even if the crash is minor, multiple claims within a short period can lead to increased scrutiny, putting your SR-22 insurance after an accident at risk.
License Suspension or Extended SR-22 Requirement
A crash with SR-22 insurance may impact the duration of your SR-22 obligation. Certain at-fault accidents can lead your state to extend your SR-22 filing period, particularly if the incident results in fines, citations, or other legal consequences. Repeated violations or a severe accident could trigger license suspension until compliance requirements are met.
Potential for Lawsuits
Having enough SR-22 insurance after an accident is crucial. The other driver may pursue a lawsuit if injuries or significant property damage occur. SR-22 liability coverage can provide financial protection, but only up to your policy limits. Many states have low liability limit requirements, which can result in out-of-pocket costs depending on the accident's severity.
Breathe Easy Insurance Solutions can help you get a free quote for SR-22 coverage. Let us do the comparison shopping for you.
Steps Following an Accident with SR-22 Insurance
Taking appropriate action following an accident can protect your legal standing and insurance coverage.
-
1. Stay Safe and Gather Information
- Make sure everyone is safe, and call emergency services if necessary.
- Move vehicles out of the way of traffic if it's safe to do so.
- Exchange information with the other parties involved, including insurance and vehicle details.
- Take photos of the scene, including relevant road conditions, road signs, and damage to all vehicles.
- Gather witness contact information, as you may need it to support your claim.
- Consider consulting an attorney if the accident involves personal injury or issues of fault.
-
2. Notify Your Insurer and State Authorities
- Inform your insurer about the accident to comply with time-sensitive requirements for reporting accidents.
- Provide a copy of the accident report, in addition to your accounting of events.
- File a report with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), depending on state requirements.
-
3. Gather Details for Your Claim and SR-22 Compliance
- Keep your documents organized, including accident reports, medical bills, correspondence with the other party, and your insurance company.
- Be prepared to show the state proof of your SR-22 insurance after an accident. This information can support your claim and demonstrate compliance with SR-22 requirements.
Filing an Insurance Claim with an SR-22
Understanding how SR-22 accident coverage works can help policyholders make informed decisions and remain calm in the aftermath of an accident.
Does SR-22 Cover Damage to My Car?
The SR-22 form is proof you have state-required liability coverage, which can help pay for third-party accident-related property damage and injuries you cause to others. However, it's important to note the differences between coverages.
- Liability insurance does not cover damage to your vehicle.
- Collision coverage can help pay to repair or replace your vehicle, minus your deductible, regardless of who is at fault.
- Guaranteed asset protection (GAP) insurance can cover the difference between your car's loan or lease payoff and your insurer's settlement if your vehicle is a total loss after a covered accident.
If the other driver is at fault, their liability insurance pays for damage to your vehicle and your injuries up to their policy's limits. In "no-fault" states, you may be required to carry personal injury protection (PIP), which would cover accident-related medical bills for you and your passengers, regardless of fault.
Breathe Easy Insurance Solutions customers can request comprehensive policies that include PIP where state law applies.
Need help? Breathe Easy can evaluate your SR-22 insurance after an accident, including information about what the policy may cover. Call one of our experienced agents today.
How Fault Is Determined and Why It Matters
Insurers and state authorities monitor your claims history and compliance with SR-22 mandates. Insurers and state authorities use police reports, witness statements, and vehicle damage analysis to assign liability. Being found at fault may increase premiums, extend your requirement for SR-22 insurance, and impact future coverage options.
Tip: Keeping detailed records and cooperating with your insurer is necessary for an accurate fault assessment.
How We Can Help You After an SR-22 Accident
At Breathe Easy, we understand the challenges of maintaining SR-22 insurance. Our team helps you navigate claims, and maintain continuous coverage, so you can keep your license active. Contact us to learn more about SR-22 insurance.
Avoiding Insurance Coverage Gaps
Continuous coverage is required to avoid lapses that could trigger license suspension or additional SR-22 filings. Our licensed agents can guide you through the process of filing a claim, updating your policy, and making sure your SR-22 status remains valid after an accident.
Considering Higher Coverage Limits Going Forward
It makes sense to review your coverage limits regularly. Higher liability and collision limits reduce the risk of being underinsured and can help protect against future financial SR-22 accident consequences. Breathe Easy can assess your current policy and recommend adjustments based on your risk profile and state requirements.
Practicing Safe Driving to Avoid More Penalties
Safe driving helps prevent accidents, lowers insurance costs, and maintains compliance with SR-22 obligations. Defensive driving courses and adhering to traffic laws contribute to safer roads and fewer penalties.
Be Prepared for Unexpected Fender-Benders
Car accidents can create stress and uncertainty, especially for drivers with SR-22 insurance filing requirements. Breathe Easy can help you maintain your SR-22 compliance, avoid gaps in insurance, and explore coverage options that provide the financial protection you need.
Need help with SR-22 insurance? Call a Breathe Easy Insurance Solutions licensed agent today at (833) 786-0237 for a FREE quote.
Common SR-22 Questions After a Car Accident
Will my SR-22 requirement be extended after a car accident?
It depends on the severity of the accident and whether you are found to be at fault. Some states may extend your SR-22 filing if a serious violation occurs; however, minor, no-fault crashes may not impact the timeline.
How much can my insurance go up after a crash with SR-22?
Premium adjustments following an accident depend on fault, claim size, and your driving history. Rates often increase more significantly for SR-22 policyholders than standard drivers after an at-fault accident, since they were already classified as high-risk by insurers.
Can I lose my license after an accident with SR-22 coverage?
Not necessarily. If you get the required SR-22 insurance, minor incidents may not result in license loss. Serious violations or failure to maintain coverage may result in suspension.
Can my insurer drop my policy after an accident with SR-22?
Yes, insurers can refuse to renew an SR-22 after an accident, particularly if it was at fault or part of a pattern of claims.
Can I obtain SR-22 coverage from another insurer if my current one doesn't renew my policy?
Yes. Many insurers offer SR-22 policies, even if your previous carrier does not renew your policy. Rates may be higher, but switching is possible to maintain compliance and avoid lapses. Breathe Easy's licensed insurance agents can guide you through this process and help you shop for the right SR-22 for you. Call us at (833) 786-0237.
