SR-22 coverage is an insurance filing requirement for high-risk drivers — those who’ve been convicted of serious traffic violations like drunk driving or at-fault accidents. New York doesn’t have SR-22 filing requirements, but auto insurance providers charge higher rates for high-risk drivers.
- Does New York Have SR-22 Insurance Requirements?
- How Much Does Car Insurance Cost for High-Risk Drivers in New York?
What Is SR-22 Insurance?
We often refer to it as “SR-22 insurance,” but SR-22 is actually an insurance filing requirement. When a driver files SR-22 certification, it notifies the state driver and motor vehicle agency that the driver has purchased and is maintaining the minimum liability insurance requirements.
Some states have SR-22 filing requirements for drivers who are convicted of serious traffic violations — also known as high-risk drivers — and have their driver licenses suspended or revoked. Typically, purchasing car insurance with an SR-22 filing requirement is one step toward getting their licenses reinstated.
Most people think the SR-22 filing requirement is expensive, but the filing fee is usually around $25. The expensive part is the higher car insurance rates that high-risk drivers have to pay. Fortunately, once a driver completes the SR-22 filing period — which is often three years — he can begin shopping around for more affordable premiums.
Does New York Have SR-22 Insurance Requirements?
No, New York does not have SR-22 insurance filing requirements.
However, that does not mean New Yorkers are in the clear when they commit serious traffic offenses. Far from it.
Take note:
- New residents who were required to file SR-22 in their former state might have to maintain that coverage for the duration of the filing period.
- Talk to a New York Department of Motor Vehicles (NY DMV) representative when you transfer your driver’s license and registration.
- Whether or not you’ve been convicted of a serious traffic offense, you must carry the state’s minimum liability insurance requirements.
- Once a car insurance company sees you as a high-risk driver, your car insurance rates will increase — by a lot (see below).
Expect to pay higher insurance rates until you’re able to clean up your driving record.
How Much Does Car Insurance Cost For High-Risk Drivers in New York?
Let’s look at the average premiums for some of New York’s most common serious traffic violations.
| Offense | Average NY Annual Rate | % Increase |
|---|---|---|
| At Fault Accident | $2,483 | 56.1% |
| DUI | $2,859 | 77.0% |
| Speeding Ticket | $1,606 | 10.9% |
As you can see, they’re not cheap. To get the most affordable rates available, shop with the most highly rated companies for high-risk drivers.
Rates After a DUI
Here are the average rates ranging from least expensive to most expensive if you need to get car insurance after a DUI conviction:
| Insurance Provider | Average NY Annual Rate After DUI |
|---|---|
| Progressive | $1,585 |
| Allstate | $2,371 |
| GEICO | $2,414 |
| New York Central Mutual | $3,844 |
| Liberty Mutual | $4,863 |
| State Farm | $6,221 |
Progressive is by far the most affordable insurance provider if you have a DUI. Another company to consider is Allstate and GEICO. Here are other insurance providers to consider if you have a DUI.
Final Thoughts
For now, you don’t have to worry about SR-22 insurance filing; however, that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook for committing a serious traffic violation. Not only do you face license suspension or revocation, fines, driving record points, and possible jail time, you also face increased car insurance rates. Here is a guide to the best cheap car insurance providers in New York.
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