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Overview
What Is California SR-22 Insurance?Though every driver has to have insurance, for the most part, an honor system is in place and most drivers are assumed to obey the law. This isn't the case for certain kinds of drivers who have come to the attention of the state as potential risks. Auto insurance exists to protect drivers from the financial hardship resulting from injury and damage caused by others. California SR-22 insurance helps ensure that drivers who have exhibited high risk-taking behavior at least meet the state's auto insurance minimums.
The Facts
California Vehicle Code Sections16000-16078, also known as the Compulsory Financial Responsibility Law, states that drivers and owners of vehicles are financially responsible for any damage or injury caused by a traffic accident, regardless of fault. It also puts the burden of proof on certain designated drivers who have been arrested of certain crimes. Anyone in California arrested for Driving Under the Influence, DUI, even if not convicted, becomes a "problem driver" and is required to file a California Insurance Proof Certificate, form SR-22, with the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Function
The purpose of the California SR-22 law is to ensure that all drivers are insured and to remove financially irresponsible drivers from the road. Most SR-22 forms are filed by drivers arrested for DUI, but they are also required for other problem drivers, such as those who have been involved in an uninsured accident, are cited for repeat traffic offenses in a short period of time, or have had their driver license suspended or revoked.
Features
The insurance requirements for problem drivers are no different than for all California drivers--the only difference is that these individuals are required to file proof of their coverage. By law, all drivers must be covered for a a minimum of $35,000 for a private passenger vehicle with at least $30,000 in coverage for personal injury or death to one or more persons, and $5,000 in property damage insurance. Drivers must also buy insurance on all vehicles operated by them or registered in their name.
Time Frame
Upon arrest for DUI, SR-22 proof of insurance is required for three years. By law, if the insurance policy lapses and is not renewed during this period, the insurance provider is obligated to file an SR-26 form notifying the state, upon which the driver will have their license suspended or revoked.
Considerations
The California Department of Motor Vehicles does not accept any other form for purposes of identifying an insurance policy, not even an insurance identification card or a copy of the policy itself. Though many states have similar programs, SR-22 forms are state specific, meaning a form filed with another state will not meet the requirements for filing in California. Assuming a driver has insurance that meet the state minimums, obtaining the SR-22 is usually a simple process of requesting the form from the insurance provider.
