Not all motorists in the US are familiar with SR-22, a DMV legal requirement, which a car insurance provider must submit to the agency on behalf of a client. A SR-22 is typically connected to license reinstatement proceedings, serving as attestation that an errant driver has a new and adequate car insurance coverage. In Florida, the state DMV or FLHSMV, may lift a driver license suspension but will require more than just a SR 22.
The Significance of SR 22 is Not All Encompassing
Have awareness that the submission of a SR 22 is significant and is not enough as basis for the approval of a driver license reinstatement. The significance of SR 22 is not comprehensive and not all-encompassing, especially if the events surrounding the suspension had resulted in dire consequences.
First off, if the driver has been criminally charged and sent to prison, he or she must first pay the penalties ordered by the court, and complete the jail time handed down by the judge as punishment. After which, the driver must also complete the probation period under the supervision of a parole officer.
In some cases, an errant driver may be charged for a mere misdemeanor. Request for the lifting of license follows only after the driver has completed the number of hours required for a court-ordered community work. Here, the low cost of the SR 22 is not connected to a conviction.
A Closer Look at the FDHSMV Requirements for Driver License Reinstatement
Like other states, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), may reinstate a driver license after all penalties have been paid and jail time and probationary period have been served and completed. The submission of an FR 44 will be required if the traffic offender was charged or incarcerated for DUI or Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or prohibited substance.
The FR 44 is a document attesting to the financial capability of the jailed driver to actually pay for and keep an SR 22 car insurance policy current and active. In Florida, the insurance company from whom the convicted driver purchased a new car insurance will also submit the FR 44 documentation.
Floridians understand that the related car insurance coverage referred to as SR-22 insurance, comes with additional charges. Moreover, it’s well understood that such car insurance policies have higher interest rates.
Yet many have the misconception that some Florida insurance companies offer cheap sr22 insurance coverage. However, the misconception stems from the fact that some SR 22 are cheaper because they are connected to license suspension meted as punishment for minor but repeated traffic violations. In some cases, a comparatively cheaper SR 22, may be required from individuals found guilty of not paying child support.
The Misconception about SR 21
Another misconception relates to Florida’s SR 21. This document is required during investigations of a car accident and not as part of license reinstatement proceedings. Florida’s traffic authorities require the submission of SR 21 as proof that the driver responsible for the car accident has adequate car insurance coverage. Otherwise, the driver involved will be charged with an additional traffic violation: Driving Without Insurance (DWI).