SR-22 Insurance After DWI In Louisiana
The SR-22 is a supplemental insurance certificate to an insurance policy, and not the insurance policy itself. This certificate serves as proof that a driver whose license has been suspended, can undertake the financial responsibility of the insurance policy. Usually, this certificate is given by the insurance company, under the supervision of the Department of Motor Vehicles to drivers who are considered as a risk to the public or in traffic, probably as a result of a DUI conviction or a record of driving under the influence of alcohol or any other mind-altering substance.
A conviction of DWI often comes with a suspension of the driver’s license. By the laws of Louisiana, it is imperative for a driver whose license has been suspended, to apply for a hardship license if they want to continue to legally drive. You will have to fill out the form at the Department of Motor Vehicles requesting the hardship license. The requirements to obtaining the license are that you have the ignition interlock device installed and proof of the SR22 insurance certificate. This only applies if you refused a chemical test or if you were convicted of DWI in court.
The problem that many DUI defendants encounter is knowing how long they would maintain the SR22 insurance. The length of time actually varies, depending on the seriousness of the conviction and how many refusals you’ve had before.
How Long Do You Have to Carry an SR22 License?
The amount of time a person is required to carry the SR22 insurance varies across the various states in the US. The default period of time in Louisiana, as it is with many states is 1 year if it is first offense DWI conviction or first refusal of the chemical test. During the carrying of the hardship license, you will have to maintain continuous coverage of the SR22 insurance policy. Otherwise, if there are any lapses in or cancellation of the SR22 insurance policy, then, your car insurance company is bound to inform the Department of Motor Vehicles who would, in turn, seize the license of the driver.
DWI Lawyers That Can Help
A conviction for DWl is a serious offense which securing a defense will be almost impossible with the involvement of trained DUI attorneys. With the aid of our DUI attorneys at the Barkemeyer Law Firm, you could secure a experienced defense, depending on your case, which may lead to a lesser punishment. Contact us if you need a DWI lawyer in Louisiana.
This article was written by Louisiana DWI attorney Carl Barkemeyer of Barkemeyer Law Firm.
