If the State of Illinois has notified you that you need an SR-22 to reinstate your driver’s license, you probably have a lot of questions. The legal jargon can be confusing, and the most common question we hear at Accurate Auto Insurance is: “Do I need SR-22 and regular insurance?”
The short answer is: Yes, but they are not two separate things.
There is a major misconception that “SR-22 insurance” is a distinct policy that you buy in addition to your standard car insurance. In reality, they work together. Here is a breakdown of how it works and what you actually need to buy to get back on the road legally.
The Difference Between SR-22 and Regular Insurance
To understand why you need both, you have to understand what an SR-22 actually is.
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Regular Auto Insurance:
This is the financial protection that covers damages if you get into an accident. In Illinois, you are required by law to carry liability limits that vary by state. Learn more about auto insurance.
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SR-22 (The Filing):
An SR-22 is not insurance. It is a certificate of financial responsibility. It is a document that your insurance company files with the Illinois Secretary of State on your behalf. Learn more about SR-22 Insurance.
Think of the SR-22 as a “tattletale” document. It proves to the state that you currently have active “regular” insurance. If you cancel your policy or miss a payment, the insurance company is required by law to notify the state immediately via the SR-22 filing, which usually results in your license being suspended again.
What If I Don’t Own a Car?
This is a very common situation. You might need an SR-22 to get your license reinstated, but you don’t currently own a vehicle to insure. This often leaves drivers asking: “How can I get regular insurance if I don’t have a car?”
In this case, you purchase a Non-Owner Insurance Policy. This will provide you with liability coverage whenever you drive a vehicle you don’t own. If you need to file an SR-22, we’ll attach the SR-22 filing to this non-owner policy.
Why You Should Choose Accurate Auto Insurance for Your SR-22
At Accurate Auto Insurance, we help all types of drivers get the insurance they need to drive legally. Reasons drivers love working with us include:
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Instant Filing:
We file your SR-22 electronically with the state immediately, so you can start the reinstatement process right away.
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Affordable Rates:
We shop multiple carriers to find the cheapest option for your specific situation.
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No Judgment:
We know people make mistakes. We are here to fix them, not judge them.
Learn more about how we help drivers get the most affordable car insurance.
Get Your Free Quote Today
Don’t let the terminology confuse you. Whether you need standard coverage or an SR-22 filing, we make the process simple.
Do you need an SR-22 filed today? Call Accurate Auto Insurance at (708) 599-4900 or click here for an instant quote. We will get you the coverage you need to drive legally in Chicago.