A conviction of driving under the influence can take a serious toll on your way of life, as well as your wallet. Once you are able to reinstate your driving privileges, the consequences of a DUI don't end--you may be required to carry additional insurance as a result of your conviction. If you're faced with the requirement of SR-22 insurance in the state of Washington, it's critical to understand what the insurance is and the consequences of having to carry it.

What is SR-22 Insurance?

SR-22 insurance--more commonly referred to as high-risk insurance--is a special form of auto insurance that must be carried along with your regular auto insurance policy. While commonly required by drivers who have been charged with several driving offenses or who fail to pay fines associated with driving infractions, SR-22 insurance is also required if you are convicted of driving under the influence in Washington. This insurance is typically more costly than a normal car insurance policy but provides no more coverage than your standard insurance policy.

You can generally obtain SR-22 insurance from your regular insurance provider, but it is possible to shop around to find a carrier with a cheaper rate. When obtaining a policy, however, it's critical to select a policy from a provider that is licensed in Washington.

Requirements for SR-22 Insurance

SR-22 insurance must meet Washington's minimum liability requirements with regard to automobile insurance. The state requires that you have an insurance policy which covers a minimum of

• $25,000 for bodily injury per person in an accident,
• $50,000 for bodily injury of multiple people in an accident, and
• $10,000 for vehicle damages in an accident.

Reinstatement of a Driver's License with SR-22 Insurance

Your insurance provider must file an SR-22 form before you are able to reinstate your driver's license. A person who has been convicted of driving under the influence in Washington must carry SR-22 insurance for a period of three years from the date that you reinstate your driver's license. If you choose to change your insurance provider during the three-year period that you are required to carry SR-22 insurance, your new provider must file another form. This must be done immediately to eliminate the risk of a lapse in your insurance coverage. A lapse in coverage can result in the suspension of your driver's license for a second time, requiring you to pay costly reinstatement fees again in order to regain your driving privileges.

Charged with DUI in Washington? Let Steve Karimi Help You Today

If you've been charged with driving under the influence in Seattle or a surrounding area in Washington, it's important to place your case in the hands of a DUI defense attorney that you can trust. Steve Karimi is dedicated to bringing his experience as a former prosecutor to the courtroom to help clients defend against their criminal charges. Don't wait until it is too late to obtain the quality representation you need to defend against your DUI charge--to speak with Steve Karimi about your DUI charge, fill out an online case evaluation form or call (206) 621-8777 today.