Cheapest SR-22 Car Insurance In Wisconsin 2024

SR-22 insurance acts as proof of financial responsibility that certain drivers must provide to the state following serious offenses such as DUIs or reckless driving. In Wisconsin, adding SR-22 to your car insurance policy involves extra costs.

Based on my experience in the insurance industry, these costs can vary significantly, and some insurers may refuse to cover SR-22 requirements. Finding the right insurer requires reviewing eligibility criteria and pricing structures, tasks I’ve already completed for you.

This article identifies the leading Wisconsin insurers offering SR-22 insurance and outlines their average premiums. While actual policy costs may differ, this information will guide you in the right direction. Keep reading to explore more about SR-22 insurance in Wisconsin.

Cheapest Companies For SR-22 Car Insurance In Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, you can find affordable SR-22 insurance with liability coverage from:

• State Farm at $280 annually
• Western National at $320 annually
• Erie at $400 annually

Cheapest SR-22 Insurance With Full Coverage

Here are three cost-effective SR-22 insurance options in Wisconsin that provide comprehensive coverage, ideal for those who need more than basic liability insurance:

• State Farm offers coverage for $690 annually.
• American Family provides coverage at an annual rate of $880.
• Erie offers full coverage for $1,100 per year.

Cheapest Non-Owner SR-22 Insurance Companies In Wisconsin

If you need to obtain an SR-22 but do not own a car, consider a non-owners policy. Here are the best-priced non-owner SR-22 policies available in Wisconsin:

• Auto-Owners: $300 annually
• State Farm: $320 annually

What Is SR-22 Insurance?

SR-22 insurance, despite its name, isn’t a type of auto insurance; it’s a certificate filed by your insurer to prove that you have the minimum insurance coverage required by your state. States typically require an SR-22 following serious violations such as license suspensions, DUIs, or reckless driving.

Therefore, car insurance companies charge higher premiums for individuals needing SR-22s due to their classification as high-risk drivers. Failing to submit an SR-22 can result in the state revoking your driving privileges, highlighting the necessity of compliance.

What Is SR-22a Insurance?

Certain states may demand an SR-22a, instead of a standard SR-22. This is typically for drivers who have frequently breached financial responsibility laws or received serious citations. Missouri, Georgia, and Texas are among the states where this form might be required.

Average Cost Of SR-22 Insurance In Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, drivers required to file an SR-22 due to a DUI conviction can expect their car insurance premiums to increase significantly. On average, the annual cost for minimum coverage is approximately $630, while full coverage averages around $1,440. These elevated rates reflect the higher risk associated with drivers who have serious violations on their records.

How SR-22 Affects Car Insurance Rates

On average, drivers can expect their car insurance premiums to rise by approximately $993 annually when they have an SR-22 requirement. This increase is often tied to prior driving incidents that led to needing an SR-22, rather than the SR-22 itself directly causing the rise. For example, if you were convicted of a DUI and required an SR-22, the higher premiums would likely be due to the DUI offense.

Additionally, there’s a filing fee associated with an SR-22, typically ranging from $15 to $25, in addition to the premium increase. Removing the SR-22 from your policy once it’s no longer mandatory can help reduce the premium hike.

How To File An SR-22

When directed by a court, state government, or the DMV to file for an SR-22, your first step should be to contact your insurance company. If you don’t already have car insurance, you’ll need to get a policy. Some auto insurers may decline coverage for drivers requiring SR-22s, so it’s crucial to confirm this before proceeding. Non-compliance could result in state penalties. Another option is to purchase a non-owner policy with an attached SR-22.

To maintain your current auto policy without any problems, even if you don’t own a car but need an SR-22 for license maintenance, choose an insurer that accepts SR-22s. After securing coverage, request to add the SR-22 to your policy. Your insurer may ask for additional information, such as why the SR-22 is needed or a formal request.

Once provided, the insurer will file the SR-22 with the state and inform them if your policy lapses. If switching insurers, aim to avoid coverage gaps and obtain the SR-22 promptly with your new insurer.

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

Different states have different requirements for the duration of an SR-22. In Wisconsin, it’s necessary to file for a minimum of three years, but depending on the reason, it might be extended to five years. Even if you leave the state, you must continue to carry the SR-22.

Other Effects Of SR-22 Insurance

Apart from influencing your auto insurance premiums, SR-22 forms can also affect your driving privileges. Failure to obtain an SR-22 within the specified timeframe or maintain it for the required period could lead to the state suspending your driver’s license or vehicle registration. This might also result in financial penalties and fees for reinstatement.

Additionally, some insurance companies may not offer policies to drivers needing SR-22s, which can restrict your choices.

SR-22 Insurance State Requirements

Every state mandates its own conditions for SR-22 submissions. Notably, states such as Delaware, Kentucky, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, and Oklahoma do not enforce SR-22 requirements. Conversely, states like Florida and Virginia may require drivers to demonstrate they carry insurance coverage that exceeds the minimum legal thresholds.

These states might also mandate an FR-22 form for DUI or DWI offenses. Arkansas and Indiana have their own distinct procedures. For example, Arkansas uses an SR-21 form to confirm insurance coverage after significant accidents, while Indiana uses an SR-50 form to verify insurance dates following a DUI.

How Much Does Credit Score Affect SR-22 Insurance Costs?

Auto insurance pricing is affected by your credit score. Insurers view lower scores and the need for an SR-22 as indicators of increased risk. Therefore, if you have poor credit and need an SR-22, you’ll likely face higher premiums—typically 72% more than those with good credit. The increase due to an SR-22 can average around 18% or more, depending on the insurance company.

Alternatives to SR-22

If your state is asking for an SR-22, filing one is necessary. Some states may allow for alternatives such as SR-21, SR-50, or FR-22. To figure out exactly what you need, it’s best to talk to a local independent agent.

How To Get Cheaper Car Insurance In Wisconsin After A DUI

While your car insurance rates might increase after a DUI, there are ways to manage the expense. Begin by obtaining quotes from various insurers; some may charge less for DUIs. Switching insurers could result in significant savings. Additionally, explore discounts such as defensive driving courses or bundling policies. Lastly, aim to avoid accidents to see your rates decrease over the typical 3-5 year period affected by a DUI.