Texas SR22 Insurance Requirements Will Show Proof Of Financial Responsibility PDF Print E-mail
Written by Jack Bennington   
Tuesday, 16 November 2010 15:42
In certain situations, drivers in Texas may need an SR22 insurance policy. Texas SR22 insurance requirements must be fulfilled when ordered by the court. Failure to comply with these requirements will generally result in suspension of all driving privileges.
by JackBennington


In certain situations, drivers in Texas may need an SR22 insurance policy. Texas SR22 insurance requirements must be fulfilled when ordered by the court. Failure to comply with these requirements will generally result in suspension of all driving privileges.

An SR22 is a certificate of insurance showing the Texas Department of Public Safety, or DPS, the driver is currently insured. These certificates are a means of proving that drivers maintain financial responsibility. The insurance company must certify to the DPS that the driver is maintaining a valid minimum coverage auto policy.

These are usually required of a motorist in connection to a court's judgment pertaining to particular traffic violations. These offenses could include drunk driving causing an accident or driving while without insurance. In some cases, various minor offenses would be reason for the court to declare certification requirements.

The first step a driver should take, when ordered to obtain one, is to make contact with an eligible insurance agent. An agent must be approved by the State of Texas in order to issue these policies. Not all auto insurers have the authorization to write liability insurance in Texas of this kind. Use of unauthorized parties to issue any kind of certificates constitutes felony fraud and forgery.

It can take time to complete procurement and filings. There will be some underwriters who can offer electronic filing that can get information entered into the proper databases as quickly as twenty four hours. This process can only take place at such time all fines and other fees are paid.

Drivers who presently are insured may find that it is necessary to use another agency. No present policies by themselves will satisfy these special requirements. A certificate may sometimes be added to existing policies as an endorsement. Present policies, cannot be a replacement on their own.

The SR22 will aid the state in assuring a driver will have proper insurance at all times by monitoring a policy. An insurance company will file the needed compliance papers and inform DPS authorities of every change that might take occur. Suspension and possible criminal charges are quite likely when discovered driving without the right coverage in force.

If someone were to cancel a policy, their company must immediately notify the state of the cancellation. Similarly, if the insurance coverages should expire, or they are otherwise concluded, a notification is issued. This usually will result in a law enforcement action that involves immediate suspension of a driver licenses. Vehicle registrations are also suspended.

The normal filing period two to three years after the date on the initial filings. In the case of a policy lapse, drivers receive a notification through the mail of relevant suspensions. Still, the suspension will have by now been activated at the time notices have are received. Drivers have to keep continuous coverage in force during period to avert further fines and fee costs that can come about.

If you should move to another state during this time period, you must fulfill the requirements of the Texas SR22. In other words, if you move to a state with lower minimum required liability, you must still maintain the minimums of the state in which an offense occurred.

DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice.