If you drive for your commute, are the family chauffeur, or simply need your car to get around, having your license suspended can make a serious impact on your daily life. Not only can it be a frustrating inconvenience, having your license suspended can also be costly in terms of fees and insurance hikes. Many people look to get out of a license suspension as quickly as possible so that they can get back on the road. Even after you’ve alleviated your suspension, you may need to acquire SR-22 insurance in Indianapolis or another city in order to be in compliance with state laws.
You May Need Insurance-Even if You’re Not Driving
It’s illegal to drive with a suspended license, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you should disregard your car insurance. Your insurance company will discover your suspension the next time your motor vehicle report is pulled, typically near renewal time. In some cases, the individual who has had their license suspended or revoked has one or more good reasons to maintain their insurance.
Reason 1: Avoiding a Policy Lapse
Canceling your policy (or failing to renew it) will result in a gap in your coverage history. Some insurers interpret a policy lapse as an increased risk factor when assessing you for insurance. This could lead to higher rates when you eventually seek to resume coverage after your suspension is resolved.
Reason 2: There Are Other Drivers On the Policy
If you share a policy with other drivers in your household, you will need to maintain your coverage to enable others to continue driving. Depending on your circumstances and the policies of your insurer, it may be necessary to name another person the primary policyholder.
Reason 3: Protecting Your Car in Storage
Depending on the value of your car and your access to a safe place to store it, you may need to insure your vehicle during your suspension. Comprehensive car insurance can protect your car from weather damage (flood, fire, hail), vandalism, and theft. Depending on the insurer, you may need to file an affidavit of non-use with your state to confirm you will not be using the vehicle during your suspension.
Driving After a License Suspension
There are numerous reasons why the state may suspend your license. Depending on the specifics of your situation, it will be easier or harder for you to have your license reinstated. You may be able to appeal your suspension. Be sure to check the state requirements for appeals, in many places the rules state that you must apply for an appeal within 10 days.
Definite and Indefinite Suspensions
If your suspension is definite, you will likely have to wait until the designated end date, which can range from days to years depending on the offense. A definite suspension may also trigger a suspension-termination fee, which must be paid before your license will be reinstated. An indefinite suspension is not dated and instead requires a specific action (or set of actions) to resolve. These types of suspensions may be filed over drivers failing to pay traffic fines, child support, or failing to file an accident report. Those with an indefinite suspension will need to take the necessary action and likely pay a suspension-termination fee to recover their right to drive.
Revoked Licenses
The resolutions for revoked license suspension varies by state. A revoked license is more serious than a suspension and could involve committing to a safe driving program, paying court fees, and/or time incarcerated. Once you have completed the court-mandated steps, you will need to return to the DMV with the necessary documentation to gain a license.
What is an SR-22 Certificate?
In some states, you may be required to obtain an SR-22 document to prove you have insurance after your license has been suspended or revoked to begin driving again. Also known as a Certificate of Financial Responsibility, an SR-22 confirms that you have car insurance and will retain it for a designated period of time.
Many insurers will charge you a nominal fee of $15-25 to file your SR-22 certificate. Once your SR-22 has been activated, it is very important that you do not allow your policy to lapse. Insurers are required to report lapses in coverage to the state for SR-22 certificate holders.
SR-22 Insurance in Indianapolis
At Accurate Auto Insurance, we make every effort to help keep drivers riding safely on the road. Whether you’re seeking SR-22 insurance in Indianapolis or another city, we can help make sure you are compliant and paying the lowest price. If you are wondering what Accurate Insurance can do for you, please call us today at 1-800-999-1034. A friendly member of our team can talk you through your options and clarify any questions you have.
