In Ohio, SR-22 is a type of auto insurance coverage that is required for high-risk drivers. Once purchased and filed with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, SR-22 coverage must stay on the driver's record for a predetermined period of time.
High-Risk Drivers
The state of Ohio defines high-risk, SR-22-eligible drivers as those who cause more than $400 in damage while driving without liability insurance; drivers who cannot show proof of insurance to a police officer; and drivers that have been convicted of a major traffic violation, such as reckless driving or DUI.
SR-22 Coverage Period
Ohio SR-22 coverage is required for high-risk drivers for a minimum of 36 consecutive months, with the actual sentencing period determined by the severity of the crime. For example, if your driver's license was suspended for five years due to DUI, you will be responsible for SR-22 coverage for five years.
Re-setting Clock
In the case of Ohio SR-22 insurance, failure to keep your auto insurance policy active, by failing to pay the monthly premium or losing your coverage, will cause the SR-22 filing period to re-start from the beginning. This means another three years minimum of costly SR-22 coverage, so it is important to keep your policy active.