Drivers with a history of serious driving violations may be eligible for an SR-22 in Connecticut. This is often misunderstood to be SR-22 insurance. However, the SR-22 form (and your car insurance) are different things. Although they are closely related, an SR-22 is not a type of insurance. SR-22s can only be used to prove insurance.
Many forms are similar to SR-22s in many states — FR-44s and SR-21 being the most common. Below are some details about SR-22s and related forms. However, the most important thing to remember is that an SR-22 and other forms similar to it serve as proof that the driver has a policy that covers the necessary level of car insurance.
What is “SR-22 insurance?”
An SR-22 in Connecticut serves only one purpose: to show the state that you have adequate coverage. This is not insurance, but evidence of insurance that the state requires under certain circumstances. Most drivers will need an SR-22 if they have a DUI or if their driving record shows too many at-fault accidents or speeding tickets.
These drivers may have received a notification from the state stating that they need to submit an SR-22. A judge may also have been informed. Drivers can obtain an SR-22 form in the same manner. They simply need to contact their insurance company and ask them to send the SR-22 to DMV. If a provider does not offer an SR-22, it may be necessary to look for a new policy with a high-risk insurer.
In Connecticut, all drivers must have, at minimum, a 25/50/25 policy. Unless otherwise instructed, every driver who has an SR-22 obligation must have the same liability coverage as all other drivers in the state. Each driver must have:
- $25,000 per person to cover bodily injury/death
- $50,000 for bodily injury/death
- $25,000 per accident to cover property damage
Alternatives to SR-22 Connecticut
After a driver is convicted for a serious traffic offense, other states might have different requirements. The SR-22 form in Connecticut is the best. You may need to comply with your state’s previous requirements for a similar form if you move in from another country. States may require more than one form depending on the severity of your situation.
- SR-19: SR-19s are used in both Texas and California, but their purpose is different in each state.
- California: A DMV form which verifies that an at-fault driver has uninsured. Insurance companies require SR-19s to provide coverage for uninsured motorists to injured parties.
- Texas: A document that describes a monthly payment agreement between an at fault driver and an injured party. It is legally binding and kept in the DMV.
- SR-21: This verifies that a driver is insured prior to an accident. This is often needed if a driver causes $1,000 or more of damage.
- SR-22A: Verifies that a driver has insurance and has paid 6 months of insurance in advance.
- FR-44: Verifies that a driver has insurance and double liability to the DMV.
- SR-50: This verifies that a driver has insurance. This is typically required by the court or state after a driver has been convicted of a DWI or suffered severe bodily injury or property damages.
SR-22 for non-owners
A non-owner policy is required to fulfill Connecticut’s SR-22 requirements. It will allow you to keep your license, borrow or rent cars as needed. While non-owner policies are more expensive than standard auto policies, they still provide the same level of protection. Non-owner policies are offered by many companies. When rate shopping, make sure you verify that the company will send an SR-22 to the DMV on your behalf.
FR-44 Connecticut
You will need to comply with the FR 44 requirements even if you live in Connecticut. An FR-44 works in the same way as a SR-22, which notifies the DMV of your coverage and cancels your policy. However, the difference is that your liability limits must be twice as high as the minimum required by the issuing state.
In Virginia, for example, drivers must have a policy of 25/50/20. This means that every driver must have the following:
- $25,000 per person to cover bodily injury/death
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injuries/death
- Property damage: $20,000 per accident
You would need a 50/100/40 insurance policy if you received an FR-44 from Virginia. You would have to pay more for this policy, especially if you have a DUI.
Insurance costs for SR-22 Connecticut
Although an SR-22 doesn’t increase the cost of insurance, it can have an impact on the insurance costs. For example, if you have been convicted of DUI recently, the DUI will result in a higher premium. In Connecticut, the average percent increase after a DUI is 86%.
Keep in mind, however, that many insurance companies will charge a one-time filing fee for an SR-22. This usually costs between $15 and $35. Talk to an agent from your company for a more precise price so that you can budget accordingly.
Questions frequently asked
What length of time do I need an SR-22 Connecticut?
A Connecticut SR-22 is required for Connecticut residents. The minimum time that you need to keep an SR-22 on file in Connecticut is three years. A judge might order that you have an SR-22 for a longer time if you are convicted again. For example, DUI convicts may have their clock reset for 3 more years after a second offense.
How can I obtain SR-22 insurance for Connecticut?
Ask your insurance company to send an SR-22 form to your local DMV. You may need insurance if you don’t have one or you can’t keep one with your current provider.
What is the cost of SR-22 insurance in Connecticut?
To have your insurance company send an SR-22 form to your DMV, there is usually a $15-$35 one-time fee. The cost impact on insurance rates will be largely determined by your driving record.
Will I need an SR-22 if I move?
Any requirements that your state or DMV has set forth will be carried with you wherever you go. If you are moving from Connecticut to a place that doesn’t require SR-22’s, you will still need to have a policy meeting the requirements of an SR-22 from Connecticut.
What happens if your insurer cancels your policy
Otherwise, you risk losing your car registration and license. If this happens, you will be required to pay a reinstatement fee to the DMV.
