What To Know About An SR-22 Certificate
Negligent driving is common, and the behavior happens whether a driver is licensed or not, which is why there are safety laws. Causing a fatal collision or severe injuries while driving negligently usually leads to time behind bars. However, for a driving offense that does not lead to anyone getting injured, the punishment is usually strict but less severe than jail time. Someone who is caught driving at a dangerous number of miles over the speed limit might get restrictions placed on his or her driving privileges. For example, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) can make it mandatory for you to obtain an SR-22 certificate to maintain your driving privileges after negligent behavior.
Mandated to Maintain Auto Insurance Coverage
When the DPS requires a driver to obtain an SR-22 certificate, it means that the driver must show proof that he or she has auto insurance coverage. The DPS will need you to contact your insurance provider to request an SR-22 certificate, and then your provider will let them know that you have coverage. Your insurance provider will keep the DPS informed about your payment behavior, such as if you stop making payments on your policy. The DPS will also be informed if you allow the insurance coverage to get canceled altogether. An SR-22 certificate allows you to be monitored for insurance coverage as a means for protecting other drivers financially if you cause an accident.
Penalties for Allowing Auto Insurance Coverage to Lapse
If you were mandated to obtain an SR-22 certificate and allow your auto insurance coverage to lapse, you will be penalized by the DPS. The penalties can vary but usually involves the suspension of driving privileges for a specific amount of time. The severity of the penalty depends on your overall driving record, but a temporary suspension is the most common. If you have a history of committing driving offenses, your license can be revoked altogether for not having auto insurance coverage after an SR-22 certificate penalty.
Being Released from the SR-22 Certificate Requirement
There is nothing that you can do to be relieved from the SR-22 certificate requirement. You must maintain the certificate until the time period that the DPS mandated is over. For instance, it is common for a negligent driver to be issued an SR-22 certificate for a couple of years. However, the duration of the penalty can vary according to the laws in different states.
For more information, reach out to a company like Clover Insurance.
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