Comparing FR-44 And SR-22 Insurance Plans

In most states, drivers who have been convicted of a DUI or driving without a valid license or insurance may be required to submit proof of insurance to their state in order to prove that they are maintaining safe and responsible habits on the road. This is accomplished through SR-22 forms, and the special policies they mandate are sometimes known as SR-22 insurance. In Florida or Virginia, however, you may be required to attain even stricter insurance policies, called FR-44 insurance after their corresponding forms. If you were sentenced in either of these two states, you will need to know the difference between the two types of insurances to ensure that you are adequately covered. 

Comparing SR-22 and FR-44 Minimum Requirements

When you submit an SR-22 form, you are showing the court and state that you are continuing to pay for a certain level of insurance to compensate for past bad decisions. This can allow you to stay on the road after your license has been suspended and regain your full driving privileges sooner. Generally, each state determines the minimum coverage required for an SR-22 policy, but they are typically not demanding. FR-44 insurance is assigned in cases where driving under the influence caused significant harm or damage, or if the irresponsible behavior was particularly egregious. Under an FR-44 policy, you will typically need to keep insurance at twice the minimum rate of SR-22, which can lead to much higher premiums. 

Finding an FR-44 Insurance Plan

Many carriers will be unwilling to take on "high-risk" drivers, but others are more concerned with helping people who have made a mistake get their life back on track. These insurers offer SR-22 or FR-44 policies to drivers ready to make a change in their lives, though you may still need to live with the higher rates of any risky driver. Most individuals must remain on this form of insurance for several years before being allowed to choose their policy more freely. 

Documenting Your FR-44 Insurance

Once you have found an insurance company willing to extend you coverage, the company should also begin submitting the required paperwork to your local government, usually for a small fee. Be sure that your carrier understands the nature of your obligation before making any agreements. With some better habits and a new track record of consistent reliability, you should soon regain your good standing with the law and be able to decide whether or not to stick with or leave your current insurer. To begin reclaiming your independence, call an insurance provider like Angel Auto Insurance to learn about your potential rates today.