After a DUI or other major traffic violation, you may face a license suspension in Iowa. For drivers in Des Moines, the state often requires filing an SR-22 certificate to prove you meet the minimum liability insurance requirements.
While adding an SR-22 to your auto policy can significantly raise your premiums, it’s not the SR-22 itself that increases costs—it’s being categorized as a high-risk driver. The good news? Even with an SR-22, there are practical ways to reduce your insurance rates.
Here are some proven tips to help Des Moines drivers save money while staying compliant with Iowa’s SR-22 requirements.
You Still Qualify for Discounts
Even if you have an SR-22, you will often still qualify for numerous discounts. These might include multi-car, advanced quote, payment frequency, transfer, homeowners, defensive driving, or an anti-theft discount.
Consider Increasing Your Policy Deductible
Portions of your auto policy may contain deductibles, which are costs that you must pay for vehicle damage before your insurance policy will cover the remainder of your claim. If you increase your deductible, then your premium will be lower, but you will have to pay more out of pocket if you are involved in an accident.
Purchase Less Insurance
You should always speak with a licensed insurance agent for advice on what coverage best fits your situation. While it is not always advisable for you to drop portions of your coverage, it is possible to do so when saving money is a priority. For example, you might be carrying comprehensive and collision coverage on an older vehicle that is worth little money, or on a vehicle that is paid off so no longer requires full coverage. Therefore, the cost of the additional coverage might outweigh any potential benefit you might receive.
Still, you must carry all coverage required of you by Iowa law and your SR-22 penalty, which is:
- $20,000 in bodily injury liability per person
- $40,000 in bodily injury liability per accident
- $15,000 in property damage liability
There may be additional requirements, so be sure to check the conditions of your SR-22 to learn more.
Work With Your Agent to Compare Quotes on Policies
One of the best things you can do with your insurance agent’s help is to compare the policies of different companies once an SR-22 is needed. If you are working with an independent insurance agent, then they will be able to offer you multiple policy quotes from multiple carriers. They will help you in choosing the most affordable, quality insurance policy for you.
Having your agent compare quotes on your policy is a great benefit when you need an SR-22. Remember, you must keep your auto insurance in effect to maintain and satisfy the SR-22 requirements. You will be much better off if you speak with an agent at The Insurance Specialists Inc that will help you get quality and affordable coverage.
