Georgia DUI Car Insurance
It is illegal to operate an automobile or motorcycle on the road in Georgia without liability insurance coverage. Georgia law mandates a minimum of $25,000 coverage per injured person up to a maximum of $50,000 per accident.
If you have ever been pulled over, you know that the police officer will ask for valid proof of insurance. If your insurance has lapsed, the Georgia Department of Vehicles will suspend your license until you provide proof of insurance.
If you have recently been convicted of driving under the influence, or you refused to take a breath test when asked, the state will order you to get SR-22 or SR-22A insurance, otherwise know as high-risk automobile insurance. The difference between the two types of insurance is that you must pay the full six months premium up front for SR-22A insurance instead of making monthly payments.
SR-22 insurance is a rider on a high-risk auto insurance policy. It means that the insurance company guarantees that you have and will keep the minimum mandatory liability insurance coverage in effect for a specific amount of time. The state monitors whether or not you obtain and maintain your SR-22 policy. Please be advised that not all insurance companies provide SR-22 insurance.
In order you have your driver’s license reinstated, you must purchase SR-22 or SR-22A insurance. There are two types of policies that you may purchase: an owner policy or a non-owner policy.
An owner policy provides liability coverage for your own vehicle. A non-owner policy is also known as an operator policy. This provides liability coverage on any vehicle that you operate but do not own, such as a friend’s car or a company vehicle. The policy may be written exclusive of the existing insurance policy.
After you have been issued your SR-22 policy, your insurer will electronically file your insurance with the Georgia DMV’s Department of Financial Responsibility. Your insurer will also file your SR-22 form with the State or Georgia and you will receive a copy of your insurance along with your policy and proof of insurance cards.
The DMV will determine how long you must obtain SR-22 insurance. This typical length of time ranges from 3-5 years. If you keep your insurance current for 36 months and you do not have any additional violations your SR-22 insurance may be terminated.
Please note – it is extremely important that you keep your policy in effect. Your insurance company will be monitoring your policy closely. If it lapses or is cancelled, the DMV will suspend your license for one year. The reinstatement fees and penalties will then be assessed at a higher cost. If you have recently been charged with DUI in Atlanta, and are interested in learning more about SR-22 insurance, please contact defense attorney Frank Gomez by filling out our online form.
