Cheapest SR-22 Insurance In Tennessee For 2024

Navigating the world of insurance can be complex, especially when it comes to unique requirements like SR-22 insurance in Tennessee. Understanding what SR-22 insurance is, why it’s needed, and how to obtain it is essential for drivers in the state.

SR-22 insurance is a document that proves financial responsibility and is needed by certain drivers after serious offenses like DUI or reckless driving. In Tennessee, you can add SR-22 to your car insurance policy, but it comes with extra charges. From my experience in the market, the additions can range from little to substantial.

I’ve seen some companies refuse to provide policies for those needing SR-22s. Finding the right company can be time-consuming and confusing. Luckily, I’ve done the research for you.

In this article, I’ve listed the top insurance companies in Tennessee that offer SR-22 insurance and their average prices. While your costs may vary, this info should help. Keep reading to discover more about SR-22 insurance in Tennessee.

Cheapest SR-22 Insurance Companies In Tennessee

Here are the three most affordable SR-22 insurance providers in Tennessee offering only liability coverage:

• State Farm- $233 Annually
• Erie – $431 Annually
• Tennessee Farm Bureau – $436 Annually

Cheapest SR-22 Insurance Policies With A DUI (Liability Only)

Cheapest SR-22 Insurance With Full Coverage

If you need more than just basic coverage, here are the three most affordable options for full coverage SR-22 insurance in Tennessee:

• State Farm – $622 Annually
• Farmers – $1,081 Annually
• Erie – $1,111 Annually

Cheapest SR-22 Insurance Policies With A DUI (Full Coverage)

What Is SR-22 Insurance?

SR-22 insurance is a certificate of financial responsibility that some drivers are required to obtain. It’s typically mandated after serious driving violations like DUIs or reckless driving. This document serves as proof that you have the minimum required auto insurance coverage mandated by your state.

As a result, insurance companies increase premiums for individuals requiring SR-22s due to their high-risk status. Failure to provide an SR-22 to the state can lead to the suspension of your driving privileges, so it’s crucial to comply with this requirement.

What Is SR-22a Insurance

SR-22a insurance, also known as a Certificate of Financial Responsibility (CFR), is a specific form of insurance required for certain drivers in Texas. It serves as proof that you have obtained the mandatory minimum liability insurance coverage mandated by the state.

Typically, SR-22a is necessary for individuals who have committed serious traffic offenses or infractions, such as driving without insurance or multiple violations within a specified period. Similar to SR-22 insurance in other states, SR-22a demonstrates to the state authorities that you are financially responsible and capable of meeting your obligations as a driver on the road.

Failure to maintain SR-22a coverage can result in severe consequences, including the suspension or revocation of your driving privileges. Thus, it is crucial to comply with the requirements and ensure continuous coverage to remain compliant with the law.

Cheapest Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance Companies In Tennessee

If you require an SR-22 but do not possess a vehicle, obtaining a non-owners policy is your most suitable choice. Below are the most affordable non-owner SR-22 policies available in Tennessee.

• Auto-Owners – $295 Annually
• State Farm – $302 Annually
• Geico – $470 Annually

Average Cost Of SR-22 Insurance In Tennessee

How SR-22 Affects Car Insurance Rates

On average, drivers may see an increase of around $993 in their yearly car insurance costs with an SR-22. This rise is typically linked to driving incidents that led to the need for the SR-22, rather than the SR-22 itself. For instance, if you were convicted of a DUI and had to get an SR-22, the hike in your premiums is likely due to the DUI.

Moreover, there’s a filing fee for an SR-22, typically ranging from $15 to $25, which is added to the rate hike. Once the SR-22 requirement is lifted, it can be taken off your policy, potentially lowering the premium increase.

How To File An SR-22

You might get an official request from a court, state government, or the DMV asking you to get an SR-22. Once you receive this notice, your first step is to contact your insurance company. If you don’t have car insurance yet, you’ll need to get a policy.

Some insurance companies may not cover drivers needing SR-22s and might refuse to provide policies for them. Before getting a new policy or asking for an SR-22 from your current insurer, make sure they offer them. Otherwise, you could face penalties from the state.

Another option is to buy a non-owner policy with the SR-22 included. This way, you can potentially keep your current auto policy without any problems. It also works if you don’t own a car but need the SR-22 to keep your license active.

Once you have a policy with a company that accepts SR-22s, ask them to add it to your policy. They might need more info, like why you need the SR-22, or a copy of the official request. After you provide this info, the insurer will file the SR-22 with the state.

Your insurer will also inform the state if your policy is canceled or lapses. So if you plan to change insurance companies while you still need the SR-22, try to avoid a coverage gap if possible, and get the SR-22 with the new company as soon as you can.

How Long Do I Need To Have SR-22 Insurance?

The duration for which you need an SR-22 can differ from state to state. In Tennessee, the minimum period for filing is typically three years, but it may extend up to five years based on the circumstances that led to requiring the SR-22. Even if you move out of Tennessee, you must still maintain the SR-22 as long as it’s required by the state.

Other Effects Of SR-22 Insurance

Besides impacting your insurance rates, SR-22s can also influence your ability to drive. If you don’t get an SR-22 within the specified timeframe or maintain it for the required duration, the state may suspend your license or car registration. This could lead to fines and fees for reinstating your driving privileges. Additionally, not all insurers are willing to provide coverage for drivers needing SR-22s, which limits your choices for insurance.

SR-22 Insurance State Requirements

Every state establishes their own criteria regarding SR-22s. For instance, certain states do not necessitate SR-22 filings whatsoever.

• Kentucky
• Delaware
• New Mexico
• North Carolina
• New York
• Oklahoma

Certain states mandate drivers to demonstrate that they hold insurance coverage beyond the minimum legal requirements. Florida and Virginia exemplify this requirement. Besides the SR-22 for specific violations, Florida and Virginia might also mandate an FR-22 for DUIs or DWIs.

Arkansas and Indiana have their own unique procedures. For instance, instead of furnishing evidence of ongoing financial responsibility, Arkansas necessitates an SR-21 following accidents meeting certain criteria to verify insurance was effective during the loss, while Indiana demands an SR-50 form post-DUI to validate insured dates.

How Much Does Credit Score Affect SR-22 Insurance Costs

The impact of credit scores on SR-22 insurance costs varies depending on several factors. While a lower credit score may result in higher premiums, the extent of this effect can differ among insurance providers. Additionally, the specific details of your driving history and the reason for requiring an SR-22 can also influence how much your credit score affects your insurance costs. Consulting with insurance companies directly can provide more accurate insights into how credit scores may impact SR-22 insurance premiums.

Hence, if you require an SR-22 and have a low credit score, you’ll likely face higher insurance costs. On average, drivers with poor credit pay 72% more for insurance than those with good credit scores. Moreover, SR-22s can raise insurance rates by around 18% or more, although the precise increase varies depending on the insurer.

Alternatives To SR-22

If your state mandates an SR-22, you must comply with the filing requirement. While some states don’t necessitate an SR-22 or may accept alternative forms like SR-21, SR-50, or FR-22, it’s crucial to determine the specific requirements. Consulting a local independent agent can help clarify your needs effectively.

How To Get Cheaper Car Insurance In Tennessee After A DUI

Lowering car insurance costs in Tennessee after a DUI conviction involves several steps. Firstly, consider completing a DUI program approved by the court, which can demonstrate your commitment to safer driving and potentially lead to reduced rates.

Secondly, compare quotes from multiple insurance companies, as rates can vary significantly. Opting for a higher deductible and reducing coverage levels might also help lower premiums, although this comes with increased out-of-pocket costs in case of an accident.

Additionally, maintaining a clean driving record going forward and completing any recommended defensive driving courses can gradually improve your insurance rates over time. Finally, inquire about available discounts, such as those for completing a safe driving course or bundling multiple insurance policies with the same provider.