Reader’s Question:

A friend of mine asked me to help her find SR22 auto insurance here in Bellevue, Washington because she was convicted for DUI. What exactly is SR22 auto insurance and how can she find one?

Collette

Bellevue, WA

Your friend might have received the dreaded Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) letter requesting a certificate of financial responsibility because of her DUI conviction in Bellevue, Washington. SR22 auto insurance is really just a form that proves to the DMV that your friend has the minimum liability limits for her vehicle. Because of her DUI conviction, the DMV requires SR22 for drivers they deem “high risk.”

Washington State does not require auto insurance companies to offer this type of insurance but many insurance companies are willing to offer SR22 insurance, but for a higher price.

If your friend is currently insured with a company, you can ask her to check with them first. Ask if they are able to file an SR22 for her and what the filing fee is. Remember that this could raise her rates, depending on the reason the form is needed. If the price doesn’t suit her, you can help her shop around to out which insurance companies offer SR22 and better yet, which one offers the best price.

Tags: drunk driving insurance, drunk driving laws, insurance, SR22 insurance