Reader’s Question:

My sister was charged with DUI here in Washington DC for the first time. She’s been busy with a lot of things including her trial proceedings on her DUI case. She once asked me to take care of her insurance and help her in filing her SR22 auto insurance. What is an SR22 and it is necessary for her to get that?

Judy

Washington DC

Getting car insurance after being charged with DUI in Washington DC can prove to be a very challenging task. I need to be honest that most major auto insurance companies will not give your sister coverage and those that will cover her will charge an arm and leg for premiums. This doesn’t seem fair since this is her first DUI offense. If her insurer finds out about her DUI charge, they could raise her rates or even cancel her insurance.

Regarding SR22, this is a document or Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) form that shows proof of financial responsibility. This is required for those who have been arrested or convicted for DUI and wants to get a restricted license. It would also let the DMV know the car insurance company has issued at least minimum liability coverage for your sister.

I strongly suggest that you help your sister get several quotes from insurance companies before making a decision on purchasing car insurance. Maybe her DUI lawyer can recommend insurance that can help her with her SR-22 filing and offer her a decent rate.