Discovering that your license has been suspended can feel frustrating and overwhelming. Suddenly, you may be dealing with paperwork, restrictions, and endless questions. But one of the most pressing questions can be, how do I get car insurance with a suspended license?
If you have problems with your license but still need to purchase insurance, luckily, you may have some options. At Infinity Insurance Agency, LLC (IIA), we can help drivers navigate complicated situations with various driving histories. Here, we’ll walk you through how to get car insurance with a suspended license and how you can help avoid lapses in coverage.
Why do I need car insurance with a suspended license?
It might seem unnecessary to carry auto insurance when you can’t drive, but having car insurance may still be crucial for you.
Firstly, if a gap in your insurance occurs, often known as a lapse in coverage, this can signal a higher risk level to your insurance company. Once you get your license back and are ready to drive again, this lapse may lead to significantly higher premiums.
Secondly, if you plan to reinstate your license, most states may require proof of active insurance before they approve your request. Without it, you could face delays or additional penalties.
Finally, your vehicle may still need coverage, even if it’s parked. Risks like theft, vandalism, or harsh weather may still damage your car, which is why it can be crucial to maintain your coverage. Having comprehensive coverage on your policy can help cover non-collision damage to your vehicle, even if you’re not currently driving it.
Getting back on the road: Understanding SR-22
If your license has been suspended, you’ve probably already heard of an SR-22, but what exactly is it and how do you get one? Though sometimes referred to as insurance, an SR-22 isn’t insurance at all. It’s actually a certificate of financial responsibility that you file with the state to prove that you carry your state’s minimum required coverage.
A court may order you to file for an SR-22 for these common reasons:
- Have serious driving violations like a DUI
- Caught driving without insurance
- Accrued too many traffic tickets in a short period
- Experienced a lapse in car insurance coverage
IIA can help you navigate both SR-22 and FR-44 filings and get you same-day insurance cards once payment is issued. With our experienced, Spanish-bilingual agents, we can gladly assist you with your SR-22 process.
Steps to getting car insurance with a suspended license
Step 1: Understanding your situation
Start by contacting your state’s DMV or visiting their website. Then, you may be able to find out exactly why your license was suspended, how long it will last, and what steps are required for reinstatement.
Step 2: Talk to an insurance agent
Not all insurance providers may be equipped to handle suspended license situations. That’s where IIA comes in. We specialize in assisting high-risk drivers, including those with complicated driving histories. Our agents can help you understand what you may need to do once your license is suspended.
Step 3: Finding the right policy
If you need to get coverage, IIA can help you customize a policy that works for you.
- If you own a car: You typically will want a personal auto insurance policy that meets your state’s minimum coverage requirements.
- If you don’t own a car: A non-owner policy may be the right fit for you. This type of policy provides liability coverage and allows you to file an SR-22, helping you reinstate your license, even without owning a vehicle.
How to get affordable coverage with a suspended license
Let’s be honest, insurance after a license suspension may mean higher premium rates. But with IIA, we work with multiple carriers to help you find the most affordable coverage for your situation. We also can help you locate ways to reduce your premium, including:
- Multi-car discounts
- Paying your premium in full
- Proof of prior coverage
- Using a telematics app from your insurer
You may also find lower costs by adjusting your coverage, like increasing your deductible or reducing optional coverages. Our knowledgeable agents can help you customize a policy that works for your needs and budget.
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How IIA can help you
A suspended license doesn’t mean you’re out of options, it just means you may need some extra guidance. By maintaining continuous coverage, filing an SR-22 if required, and working with knowledgeable agents like the ones at IIA, you may be able to reinstate your license and keep your insurance prices low.
Our Spanish-bilingual agents are here to help guide you through your reinstatement process without the language barriers. Call us today at 1-855-478-3705 to discuss car insurance and suspended licenses or to get your free personalized insurance quote!
FAQs
Can you get car insurance with a suspended license?
Yes, you may be able to get coverage while your license is suspended. While your options may be more limited, IIA can help you locate coverage that works for you.
How much does car insurance increase after a license suspension?
Rates can vary between drivers, but auto insurance premiums may increase significantly depending on the reason for your suspension and your driving history.
How long does a suspended license affect insurance rates?
Typically, violations may impact your rates for 3 to 5 years, though this can vary based on your offense and the state you live in.
How do you get a suspended license reinstated?
This also may vary by state and offense, but typical steps may include paying fines, completing courses, and filing for an SR-22.
What is the penalty for driving on a suspended license?
Penalties may include fines, extended suspension periods, and even jail time in certain cases.
Can auto insurance companies see if your license is suspended?
Yes. Insurers will typically check your driving record, so it may be important to be honest about your situation when trying to purchase insurance.
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