Whether you’ve been in multiple vehicle accidents or received a DUI, your status as a high-risk driver may require you to possess SR22 insurance — proof that you are fully insured. While this requirement is only a temporary condition, 1^st Choice Insurance explains that missing payments and lapsing on your coverage can have significant consequences. Specializing in high-risk insurance in Fairfield, OH, this provider explains what happens when your coverage lapses — and what you can do to fix it.

Consequences of Lapsed SR22 Insurance

If you miss a payment on your SR22 coverage, your insurance provider is required by law to report the lapse to the Ohio State DMV. Upon this notice, the DMV will likely suspend your license and may even revoke it entirely, depending on the circumstances of your driving history.

Although not always the case, some lapses may result in additional penalties or fines that can increase your expenses to reinstate your license and maintain auto insurance. In many situations, a failure to maintain coverage will cause the SR22 filing period to start over. For example, if you’re required to hold high-risk insurance for a year and lapse in the 10^th month, you may have to maintain coverage for an additional year once reinstated.

What to Do if Your SR22 Insurance Lapses

Since the insurance provider is required to report a lapse in coverage right away, you will have to act fast to stay in good standing with the DMV. You must first catch up on missed payments with your insurer to keep your insurance up to date. Once current, you can make a payment to file a new SR22. When a new SR22 form is submitted, the DMV is alerted to see that you’ve taken care of coverage needs.

While you may be in good standing with your insurer, you’ll also need to check with the DMV to see if your license was suspended or if any fees were applied. You must pay all related fines to make your license legal again.

1^st Choice Insurance understands that SR22 can be costly, which is why they work to provide cheap car insurance in Fairfield, OH. And as high-risk insurance specialists, this family-owned company works with you to manage payments and costs to avoid lapses. To learn more about your options or for help with the SR22 application process, contact a trusted agent at (513) 860-0666.