Is there a statue of limitation regarding the necessity of a SR-22 form on DUI conviction. Mine was 12 years ago and I am try...
Full Question:
Is there a statue of limitation regarding the necessity of a SR-22 form on DUI conviction. Mine was 12 years ago and I am trying to get my license back. It is listed as being suspended.
05/16/2007 |
Category: Drivers Lice... ยป Influence of... |
State: West Virginia |
#4998
Answer:
Many insurance companies check your motor vehicle record only once every three years or when you're applying for a new policy. Sometimes, accidents, tickets, and drunk-driving convictions can escape your insurer's attention or don't end up on your motor vehicle record. However, if your insurer does find out about a driving under the influence (DUI) conviction, you're likely to feel the pinch of higher rates and possibly policy cancellation or non-renewal. Rates can be doubled or tripled, although this may be a price-gouging tactic. Shopping around will definitely yield the lowest rate, as they vary greatly.
There are two ways insurance companies generally deal with customers convicted of DUI. First, your insurer will likely raise your insurance premiums and label you a high-risk driver if it finds out you've been convicted of DUI. In this case, you'll likely have to file proof of insurance for three — sometimes five — years with your state's department of motor vehicles. Your insurance company will have to provide the DMV with an SR-22 form, which removes your license suspension by providing the state with proof of insurance. An SR-22 also means your insurance company is required to notify the DMV if it cancels your insurance for any reason.Most state laws require DUI convicts to get an SR-22 from their insurers, so you can't hide. In addition, your company may cancel your insurance mid-term or terminate the policy at the end of the term because of your DUI conviction, especially if you are currently in a preferred class. Your company will send you a notice stating why you've been canceled, and then you'll have to find another insurer while having a cancellation on your claims history. Some insurance companies don't offer SR-22 policies, so you may also be non-renewed or canceled because your company can no longer provide what you need. Certain states don't allow insurance companies to drop you in the middle of the policy term even for a DUI.
