SR-22 vs. FR-44 – Differences You Should Know!

Obtaining an SR-22 or FR-44 is something that people do not look forward to, but if it required then you will want to know the difference between both types of policies. A SR-22 and FR-44 are required when there is a particular type of blemish on your driving record.

It could be from a DUI or other type of major violation such as driving without having any insurance or a driver’s license. It also may stem from the state discovering that you do not have car insurance.

Whatever the reason, if you are required to have one, then it is important to know the difference between SR-22 and FR-44 so that you can make the best informed decision about how to proceed.

SR-22

This form is really nothing more than a particular filing that is attached to an auto policy. Here, the auto insurance company will notify the state’s department of motor vehicles (DMV) that you are insured. Plus, if your insurance should be cancelled for some reason, the insurer will also notify the state as well.

The end result is that you will be placed in category of higher risk and subsequently pay higher premiums as a result.

FR-44

This is similar to an SR-22 in terms of being attached to an auto insurance policy. However, it does have the requirement of the insured driver carrying at least $100,000 in liability on the policy itself. This is based on the theory that drunk drivers are likely to be repeat offenders and statistics also show that the results of accidents in which they are involved are more likely to have devastating consequences in terms of damage and injury. So, the higher liability is designed to cover the other party in case of an accident that involves a DUI.

The FR-44 in Florida as well as the FR-44 in Virginia is called DUI Insurance. It is required in these two states if you have been convicted of the following;

• DUI
• Driving with Suspended Driver’s License Due to a Conviction or Not Innocent in Juvenile cases
• Violation of Federal, State, or Local law or ordinance similar to Driving with a Suspended License due to Conviction.

In addition, the coverage limits for liability are generally double that of SR-22 insurance and both Florida and Virginia have their own state minimum requirements that cover the following;

• $100,000 Coverage for Bodily Injury or Death of One Person
• $300,000 Coverage for Bodily Injury or Death of Two or More People
• $50,000 Coverage for Property Damage

The difference between an SR-22 and FR-44 are considerable, especially if you live in Florida or Virginia where the consequences can be very steep. Ideally, you will want to avoid having either of these attached to your car insurance because of the higher rates. However, for drivers who have suspended licenses it pays to not drive your vehicle particularly if you live in Virginia or Florida where the punishment can be quite severe.