What Type of Driving Offense Requires FR-44 Insurance?

Serenity InsurancePosted on Posted in General
What Type of Driving Offense Requires FR-44 Insurance?

Because FR-44 insurance is not widely utilized, many drivers wonder what types of driving offenses require this insurance. Understanding FR-44 insurance requirements and who needs to file for it directly impacts your ability to maintain driving privileges and financial stability.

This blog post breaks down what FR-44 insurance is, the driving offenses that require it, and how you can find affordable options. By the end, you can make informed decisions about your insurance needs.

What Is FR-44 Insurance?

FR-44 insurance is a certificate of financial responsibility. It serves as proof that a driver has purchased the minimum required liability coverage after serious driving offenses. Unlike standard auto insurance, FR-44 insurance requires high liability limits for bodily injury and property damage coverage. FR-44 minimum liability limits can double the requirement for other drivers depending on the state the driver resides in.

FR-44 insurance is similar to SR-22 coverage but with more stringent requirements. Courts typically require it before reinstating a driver’s license after offenses deemed more serious than those necessitating SR-22 insurance. The objective is to ensure high-risk drivers have adequate coverage to protect themselves and others on the road. Meeting these high coverage requirements increases premium costs for people needing FR-44 insurance.

Where Is FR-44 Insurance Mandatory?

Another difference between FR-44 insurance and SR-22 insurance is that FR-44 insurance is not widely used as a penalty for severe driving offenses. Florida and Virginia are the only states in the US that use FR-44 to deter drivers from violating traffic laws.

Your insurance company files the FR-44 form with the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles, which proves that you have the required insurance coverage. If you live in Florida or Virginia and face a qualifying offense, the increased liability coverage is typically necessary for reinstating a suspended license after a serious offense.

Driving Offenses That Require FR-44

Florida and Virginia state law outlines that serious driving offenses constitute an FR-44 insurance requirement for high-risk drivers. Compared to driving offenses that constitute an SR-22 insurance requirement, these crimes are seen as more perilous, leading to higher minimum liability requirements. Here are the four driving offenses that require FR-44 insurance:

A drowsy, intoxicated man in a hoodie and baseball cap is driving a sedan, his head lowered and looking tired.

Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence (DUI) is the act of operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) that exceeds the legal limit. Penalties include hefty fines, license suspension, and mandatory FR-44 insurance in Florida or Virginia. In Florida, FR-44 insurance is only used as legal punishment for DUIs and no other driving offenses.

Driving While Intoxicated

Driving while intoxicated (DWI) refers to operating a vehicle while impaired by intoxicants or drugs. Driving after consuming prescription or illicit drugs increases the risk of accidents and endangering lives. Many states view DWI convictions as serious infractions that indicate compromised driving ability, with Virginia necessitating drivers to obtain FR-44 insurance.

Maiming While Under the Influence

Virginia’s DUI maiming charge refers to instances when an intoxicated driver causes an accident with serious injuries. Due to its severity, individuals convicted of this crime must carry FR-44 insurance, reflecting the increased risk posed to others by their actions and ensuring they can cover damages if necessary. If a driver is convicted of a similar charge in another state and moves to Virginia, they may also be required to file for FR-44 insurance.

Driving With a Suspended License

Driving with a suspended license means operating a vehicle while your driving privileges have been revoked due to previous offenses. This situation can arise from a DUI, DWI, or serious traffic violations. If caught, drivers may be required to obtain FR-44 insurance to demonstrate financial responsibility before their license can be reinstated.

Driving Offenses That Require SR-22

In Florida and Virginia, SR-22 insurance is utilized to punish high-risk drivers who commit less severe infractions, as state law outlines. Here are three driving offenses that mandate an SR-22 insurance requirement to reinstate a driver’s license:

Driving Without Insurance

Driving without insurance is a serious legal infraction that can have significant consequences. Many states impose strict penalties for this violation, including hefty fines and potential suspension of your driving privileges. If caught, you may be required to file an SR-22 certificate to ensure you carry adequate coverage and abide by state regulations.

Reckless Driving

Reckless driving is defined as operating a vehicle in a way that shows blatant disregard for the safety of others. This behavior can include excessive speeding, aggressive lane changes, or other dangerous maneuvers on the road. If charged with reckless driving, you may need to file an SR-22 to confirm that you have the minimum required insurance coverage to drive legally.

A drowsy, intoxicated man in a hoodie and baseball cap is driving a sedan, his head lowered and looking tired.

Unsatisfied Judgements

Unsatisfied judgments occur when a person fails to meet the financial obligations set by a court ruling. This individual could be a safe driver but have their license suspended due to missing child support payments or not paying taxes. This situation can have serious repercussions, including the need for an SR-22. This ensures that the driver carries liability insurance to cover future accidents or claims that may arise.

How Long Does FR-44 Last?

The duration for which you need FR-44 insurance varies by state and offense. Typically, drivers have to maintain FR-44 coverage for two to five years. Any lapse in coverage can result in severe penalties, including suspending your driving privileges. Stay on top of your insurance status, and make sure that your FR-44 coverage remains active for the required duration.

How To Get Affordable FR-44 Insurance

Due to higher liability requirements, FR-44 insurance is much more expensive than standard insurance. However, you can find affordable options. Start by shopping around and comparing FR-44 insurance quotes from various providers. Insurance companies offer different rates, so it’s worth taking the time to explore your options.

Consider working with a provider who specializes in high-risk policies. They can help you understand available discounts and tailor a policy that fits your needs and budget. Serenity Group specializes in providing affordable FR-44 insurance for high-risk drivers in Florida and Virginia. Use our website to receive a quote in less than five minutes!