So, you’re looking for car insurance,but you have had accidents and/or other previous driving violations and you can’t remember the dates or other specifics. Well, luckily all of that information can be found in what is called a motor vehicle record (MVR). Our team at SR-22 Bond of Ohio not only can help you get cheap SR22 insurance, but we’ve also put together this in-depth guide to help you understand how to get your driving records, where you need to go, and how to get your license reinstated.
Driving Record – How to Get Your Copy
This is a question that we get asked often, but it actually is fairly easy to get a copy of your own driving records. You’ll have to go to your local BMV (Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicle) or DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles). Depending on your state and location, you may need to pay a fee (don’t worry it shouldn’t be too much) and show them your driver’s license.
How long it will take to get your copy also depends on where location and state. Some offices may mail it to you while others will let you instantly access your report online. You can inquire with your local offices about the details and fees regarding this process.
Pro Tip: Be very careful of vendors that provide Motor Vehicle Reports (MVR) since their prices are often very high and the information may not even be correct.
Motor Vehicle Reports (MVR)
An MVR provides such violation info like accidents, driving convictions, and speeding tickets. Generally, this report will provide the previous three years (or more) of driver history. Depending on the insurer you go with, they may ask for this history, certain years, etc.
Many MVRs can include such information like:
- Driver’s License class, status, suspensions, etc.
- Traffic violations/citations
- Driver points (if the state uses a point system)
- Reports of any accidents
- Driver convictions
While not a public record, police, businesses, and attorneys can gain access to these records, regardless of the state. Again, each state has different process regarding the access to an MVR, so you can inquire about your specific location.
Why Do I Need An MVR?
When you apply for auto insurance, companies will use your MVR to evaluate what policies you would qualify for and ultimately, how much you will pay for your insurance. Understanding and being aware of your records, violations, and dates can help you get the most precise estimate.
Also, another benefit to gaining access to an MVR is that it gives you the opportunity to fix any wrong personal information and to also ask for a pointsexpungement that could help with the cost of your insurance.
Getting A Driver’s License Reinstated
Now, what do you do if you have a suspended driver’s license? In cases where a driver’s license has been suspended, you need to know how you can apply and get cheap SR22 insurance. While it will vary from state to state, in Ohio, you need to send your documentation (via snail mail) at least 20 days prior to the date your suspension will end.
You will need to pay an amount for reinstatement, and also provide insurance proof if you have a suspension due to a DUI infraction. If your infraction happened before September 30, 2008, you would have to pay a charge of $475.
How Can I Get Cheap SR22 Insurance?
Normally SR22 insurance can cost you in the ballpark of $20-$50 and you can often get them as the same day you filled for it. Don’t forget that if you do move to a different state, you will need to file for a bond in Ohio.
What Does SR22 Insurance Do?
With SR22 insurance, it will cover up to $25,000 (a person) or up to $50,000 an accident. This accident protection includes any harm done to the driver or passenger of the other car, or a pedestrian. SR22 insurance will also cover $25,000 of property damage in the event of an accident.
Now, with that being said, it is vital to understand that these types of bonds will not cover any medical bills for your passengers or yourself. This is often a point of confusion for many, so it’s very important to know this detail.
Our Team at SR-22 Bond of Ohio Can Help
At SR-22 Bond of Ohio we know that getting insured and back on the road is important to you. Understanding how SR22 insurance works can be confusing, and our team is here to answer all your questions, concerns, and we can help you through the entire process so you can get the coverage you need and want.
To get an instant free quote on cheap SR22 insurance, and to learn more about how we can help, contact us today!