After you commit a serious traffic violation in Mississippi, you may need SR-22 insurance. An SR-22 form proves to state authorities that your auto insurance meets Mississippi’s minimum car insurance requirements.
Here’s what you need to know about finding affordable auto coverage in Mississippi if you need an SR-22.
Cheapest companies for SR-22 insurance in Mississippi
Drivers who need SR-22 insurance typically have to pay more for car insurance than people with a clean driving record. The following car insurance companies offer the cheapest auto policies in Mississippi for drivers who need SR-22 documentation.
What is SR-22 insurance in Mississippi?
If you’re a high-risk driver, you may need your insurance company to file an SR-22 form with the Mississippi Department of Public Safety on your behalf. Put simply, an SR-22 proves to the state that you hold the minimum car insurance that Mississippi requires.
Depending on your auto insurer, having an SR-22 may lead to an increase in your car insurance rates or even termination of your coverage. You might need to find a new insurance company to approve you for a policy and file an SR-22 for you.1
Difference between SR-22 and FR-44
In Florida and Virginia, high-risk drivers may need to file an FR-44 form instead of an SR-22. Compared to an SR-22, an FR-44 form requires more comprehensive insurance.
In Virginia, an FR-44 doubles the minimum amount of liability coverage required by the state. States usually require FR-22 forms for drivers who incur major traffic violations for driving impaired or under the influence. Similar to an SR-22, an FR-44 serves as a certificate of financial responsibility.
When you need SR-22 insurance
Per Mississippi law, high-risk drivers may need to file an SR-22 with their car insurance company and face penalties like fines, jail time, and a suspended license.
A few situations in which you may need an SR-22 include:
DWI or DUI charges: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is dangerous for you and other drivers. If you receive a DWI or DUI conviction, you’ll likely have to file an SR-22 form to meet Mississippi’s legal requirements.
Fleeing the scene of an accident: In Mississippi, drivers must stop at the scene of a car accident to evaluate any property damage and injuries, as long as it’s safe. If you drive away, you might need to obtain an SR-22 certification.
Repeated reckless driving offenses: If you have two or more traffic violations in a short period of time, you may face an SR-22 requirement. This might be the case, even if they’re minor.
Driving without auto insurance coverage: You may need an SR-22 if law enforcement catches you driving without insurance that meets minimum liability coverage requirements. It may allow you to regain your driving privileges.2
How to get SR-22 insurance in Mississippi
Here’s how to secure an SR-22 certificate in Mississippi:
Check with your auto insurance company. SR-22s aren’t available through every car insurer. Contact your current insurance company or insurance agent and ask if it files these forms.
Find a new car insurance company if necessary. If your insurance company doesn’t file SR-22s, it’s your responsibility to find one that does. Even if your insurer does offer SR-22 forms, it’s a good idea to shop around for insurance quotes, as you might be able to land a better deal and more affordable car insurance elsewhere.
Ask the insurer to file the SR-22 form. Inform the auto insurance company that you need to file an SR-22 high-risk insurance certification with the Mississippi Department of Public Safety. It should be able to do this on your behalf if you provide it with your most current information.
How long Mississippi requires SR-22 insurance
In the state of Mississippi, you’ll need to maintain your SR-22 form and show proof of liability insurance for at least three years from the date of your conviction. This time frame may be longer if your offense is more serious.
Note that you’ll likely face higher premiums, so it makes sense to shop around and compare different insurers who offer SR-22 filing.
How SR-22 insurance affects driving record and future rates in Mississippi
Auto insurance companies perceive drivers who need an SR-22 to be high risk due to the traffic violation that led to the requirement. For these reasons, an SR-22 certificate might raise your car insurance rates. These premiums might remain more expensive even after you hold your SR-22 for three years.
The following tips can help you lower your car insurance costs with an SR-22.