Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers | March 4, 2025 | Car Accidents
If you’ve heard the term “SR-22 insurance,” you might think it’s a special policy. In reality, SR-22 is not a type of insurance at all—it’s a certificate of financial responsibility that proves you carry the minimum required auto insurance.
Some states make drivers with certain violations (like DUIs or driving without coverage) file SR-22 to legally drive again. Below is a simple look at how SR-22 works, what Georgia’s insurance requirements are, and whether you might need to file one if you live here.
SR-22: A Certification, Not a Policy
SR-22 is basically a form your insurance company sends to the state, confirming you have an active auto policy that meets state minimum standards. If you cancel your insurance or let it lapse, your insurer alerts the government that you no longer hold adequate coverage, possibly leading to a suspended license again.
In many places, only drivers who’ve had license suspensions or serious traffic infractions are asked to maintain an SR-22. For example, if you’ve been convicted of driving without insurance or a DUI, a court may order you to file. The certificate remains in place for a set period—often one to three years—before you can go back to standard requirements.
Minimum Auto Insurance in Georgia
For drivers in Georgia, the state mandates certain liability insurance levels:
- $25,000 bodily injury liability per person
- $50,000 bodily injury liability per accident (if multiple people are hurt)
- $25,000 property damage liability
This coverage helps pay for others’ injuries or property damage if you’re at fault. If the court or Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) says you must file an SR-22, you must still meet these minimums—or possibly higher coverage—depending on your situation. Without proof of SR-22, if required, you can’t legally drive.
Who Needs an SR-22 in Georgia?
Generally, Georgia doesn’t automatically require an SR-22 for every driver. But you might need one if:
- You had a DUI or reckless driving conviction
- You were caught driving uninsured
- You had multiple serious traffic violations in a short period
- Your license was suspended for other reasons
Not everyone facing these infractions will need an SR-22, but it’s a common path for reinstating your driving privileges after major violations.
Will SR-22 Cost Me More Money?
Because you’re considered a higher-risk driver if you need SR-22, your insurance premium can go up. The certificate itself typically involves a small filing fee, but the main cost comes from the higher insurance rates.
Shopping around for insurers that offer SR-22 coverage might help you find a better deal. Also, once your SR-22 period ends—assuming no further violations—you can often drop back to normal rates.
Contact the Atlanta Car Accident Lawyers at Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers Today
Whether you’re dealing with SR-22 requirements after a serious violation or simply seeking to understand Georgia’s insurance rules, it’s important to keep your coverage in good standing—especially if you’ve had prior infractions. If you’re injured in a car accident or need help filing a claim, consider consulting a Georgia car accident lawyer.
An experienced attorney can clarify your rights, negotiate with insurers, and pursue compensation if you’ve been harmed. Don’t hesitate to reach out for legal guidance when your driving record or accident claim is on the line. Most lawyers in this area of the law provide free initial consultations to review the facts of your case.
For more information, contact the Atlanta Car Accident law firm of Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation. We have convenient locations in Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Lawrenceville, Mableton, Smyrna, and Roswell.
We serve Fulton County and its surrounding areas:
Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers – Atlanta
201 Joseph E Lowery Blvd NW Suite 312,
Atlanta, GA 30314
Open 24/7
(770) 900-9000
About Robert M. Hammers Jr.
Robert M. Hammers, Jr. is the managing partner at Hammers Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers in Atlanta. Committed to justice, he represents individuals harmed by negligence, focusing on personal injury litigation, toxic torts, and mass torts involving defective drugs and medical devices.
With over 50 jury trials and $100 million in verdicts and settlements, Rob is known for his strategic thinking and dedication to achieving the best outcomes for his clients. He serves on the Executive Committee for the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association, the American Association for Justice Board of Governors, and the Plaintiff Leadership Committee in complex multi-district and toxic tort litigations, where he advocates for injured individuals and shapes legal strategies.
Robert is also recognized on Justia for his excellence in personal injury law, further highlighting his reputation and commitment to client advocacy.
