Making Sense of SR-22 Texas for DUI: Get Educated. Educating yourself about SR-22 Texas is a critical step to ensure you know what you need to do if you have received a DUI or DWI conviction in the state of Texas. Understanding the process can help make sure your rights are protected and ensure you are compliant with the Texas Department of Public Safety (TDPS) regulations.
An SR-22 is a form of insurance required by law after being convicted of a DUI or DWI in the state of Texas. It is a form of financial responsibility that notifies the TDPS that you have coverage to cover liability if you cause an accident after being convicted. In order to obtain an SR-22 you must secure car insurance with a company that offers the SR-22 option.
When you Get an SR-22, it must be filed with the TDPS by your car insurance company and a certificate of insurance filed with them. This certificate of insurance must include your name and address, the policy number, the effective dates of the policy, the car insurers name, address and phone number, and the plate numbers of all insured vehicles. Once the TDPS has the paperwork, they will send you an approval notice or a denial notice.
If your SR-22 is approved, you are then responsible for making sure it is kept up to date. This means you will need to keep paying your premiums on your auto insurance policy. Nonpayment of premiums can lead to the SR-22 lapsing. If this happens, the TDPS will suspend your drivers license. In order to reinstate it, you will have to purchase a new auto insurance policy and the company will have to file a new SR-22 with the TDPS.
You may also have certain restrictions placed on your license when you get an SR-22 such as a zero alcohol level. Breaking the restriction will result in revocation of your privileges and a possible arrest. Additionally, if your car insurance policy with the SR-22 option is canceled due to any reason, you must purchase another policy with the SR-22 option and have it renewed before you can reinstate your license.
The cost of an SR-22 is included in your auto insurance rate but depends on your rate and your insurer. Generally, additional costs will range from $25 to $50 for filing depending on the insurer. However, many insurers offer a discount for drivers who have been convicted of DUI or DWI, so it is important to shop around and see if you qualify for this discount.
The most important thing to remember if you are required to get an SR-22 is that you must follow the rules and regulations set out by the TDPS. Failing to adhere to these rules will result in suspension of your drivers license. Additionally, if you plan to move to a different state, you must satisfy the SR-22 requirements in that state as well.
In terms of additional car insurance in Texas, if you are required to get an SR-22 per the TDPS, you may also be required to get uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM) coverage for you and your vehicle. This additional coverage protects you from others on the roads that may not have the appropriate level of automobile insurance. It is important to make sure you understand which level of UM coverage you need in order to be in compliance with the TDPS.
The Texas Department of Public Safety also requires vehicle owners with an SR-22 filing to maintain a liability limit of $25,000/$50,000/$25,000 for their vehicle and injury coverage This is to cover damages to another vehicle or the medical costs for a third party in the event of an auto accident that is caused by the holder of the SR-22 policy. Failing to maintain this limit will result in suspension of your license until the coverage has been restored.
The state of Texas also requires certain reporting to be completed if you need an SR-22. This includes a copy of your driving record, your vehicle registration and proof of insurance. This information has to be submitted to the TDPS and according to their regulations. It is important to make sure you have all the documents required in order to be in compliance and avoid penalties imposed by the state.
When it comes to purchasing a car insurance policy with the SR-22 option, it is important to make sure you read the terms of the policy very carefully. Many policies will not cover costs associated with DUI or DWI convictions, so make sure you know what is and is not covered in order to make an informed decision. Additionally, it is important to speak with an attorney to evaluate any potential criminal penalties that may be imposed on you as a result of a DUI or DWI conviction in Texas.
