SR-22 in Ironton and Wheelersburg, OH
Getting Ohio Drivers Back on the Road with Affordable Auto Insurance
An SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility (CFR) that is required by states and is provided by insurance companies. It verifies that you have auto insurance liability coverage. An SR-22 is also known as an FR-44.
At Kinder’s Insurance Agency we can help you obtain the right SR-22 policy for the most competitive price. We help you acquire and complete the proper documentation and we file an SR-22 certificate on your behalf. We communicate with the state and keep you updated on any changes to your driving status so you can fulfill your responsibilities as an SR-22 carrier. This way, you can drive legally.
What Is An SR-22?
SR-22s are required by courts or mandated by states for specific driving-related violations. SR-22 insurance is usually required for drivers who have been caught driving without insurance, but other violations qualify drivers for SR-22 coverage. These violations include:
- DUI or DWI conviction
- Serious moving violation
- Repeated minor traffic violations
- Driving without insurance
- Suspended or revoked license
If you need an SR-22, the courts or a state Motor Vehicle Department will notify you. Once notified, you must contact an insurer. The insurer will help you file necessary documentation and will confirm your coverage to the state.
The holding period of an SR-22 lasts an average of three years, but can last longer. If you pay required premiums and keep the policy active, the SR-22 will remain in effect. If the SR-22 is valid, you can fulfill your responsibilities to the state. In some cases, a consistently valid SR-22 status can shorten a holding period.
If coverage is canceled at any point, insurers give the state advanced notice before cancellation takes effect. When a cancellation is made, insurers file an SR-26 with the state. The SR-26 indicates that a policy is not in effect.
SR-22 in the State of Ohio
SR-22 filings are a way for the state to track your insurance ensuring you maintain coverage. The state will suspend your driver’s license if your policy cancels. If you own a vehicle and currently have auto insurance a SR-22 filing needs to be added to your auto policy. If you do not have insurance, you will need to start an auto policy with a SR-22 filing.
In the event you do not own a vehicle, you will need to take out either an SR-22 or a non-owner’s policy with an SR-22 filing. We prefer to write the non-owner’s policy with an SR -22 because of the flexibility of the policy. We are often asked if the vehicle has to be insured if a SR-22 is being purchased and the short answer is YES!
Sr-22 policies NEVER insures the vehicle you are driving. Here are two examples, your car is parked on the street and hit by another vehicle. You will be required to show proof of insurance for that vehicle, with a SR-22 only, you cannot. Another reason your vehicle must be insured is not every state recognizes SR-22 policies as adequate proof of insurance.
Our office is located in a tristate area and the majority of our insureds are in Kentucky or West Virginia every day. Neither state will accept a SR-22 as proof of insurance. We have multiple carriers that issue SR-22 filings allowing us to provide you with the coverage you need at a competitive price. Our carriers also offer many different payment plans so we can find one that works for you!
Non-Owners Policy: Common Reason Why You May Need a Non-Owners Policy in OH
- You drive a company vehicle and do not own a vehicle
- Currently do not own a vehicle but have a valid driver’s license
- License is suspended and you need an Sr-22 filing and you do not own a vehicle
Allow us to explain in a little more detail.
A non-owners policy is acceptable proof of insurance for the state and will allow you to get or renew your driver’s license in the event you currently do not own a vehicle. Most states require you either show proof of insurance or sign a form stating you have insurance when obtaining or renewing your license.
Another reason for a non-owners policy is rental car companies require that you have auto insurance in order to rent a vehicle. The most common reason our office writes a non-owners policy, is because a sr-22 filing is being required by the state and the client does not own a vehicle.
We prefer a non-owners policy to a sr-22 policy only for a number of reasons. It allows the insured to add a vehicle, once one is purchased, without having to re-write the policy preventing the insured from having to make another down payment. It also allows medical payment coverage and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to be added to the policy. Both of which are very important coverages and cannot be added to sr-22 policies.
Most importantly, non-owners policies are accepted in all states. There are other scenarios in which someone may need a non-owner’s policy, give us a call today and we can discuss your options. We have multiple carriers that write non-owners allowing us to find you a competitive rate and payment plan that works best for you!
Are There Fees For Filing An SR-22 in OH?
Most states require a one-time fee (usually $25) for filing an SR-22. If you allow your policy to lapse, the fee must be paid again. If you do not have auto insurance at the time of filing, the filing fee will be included in your insurance quote. If you are insured however, the fee will be separate.
Our Solutions
If you live in Ohio and need a filing, we will help you fulfill the state’s requirements and keep you driving legally. Whether you’ve been insured in the past or have never had drivers insurance, we’ll help you find the policy that provides the coverage you need.
At Kinder’s Insurance Agency, we specialize in prompt, efficient service. We can help get you covered promptly. This way, you remain independent and secure behind the wheel.
Contact one of our specialists today.