License suspension is a common punishment for various types of violations. You can have your license suspended for:
- Getting a DUI conviction
- Having multiple traffic violations
- Accumulating a high number of points on your driving record
Drivers licenses can also be suspended for violations for non-driving reasons, such as failing to pay child support. A recent study commissioned by the National Highway Transport Safety Administration revealed that the percentage of suspended drivers for non-driving reasons had risen to 36 percent in 2005.
What Happens When Your License is Suspended?
There are many things that go through a driver’s mind when their license is suspended. They wonder how they will get to work, how they will get their children to school and how they will get around in general.
Not only is it a license suspension inconvenient, it also comes at a great monetary expense. You will have to spend money on transportation. You will also likely have to deal with paying higher insurance premiums after your license is reinstated and you renew your insurance policy.
As you’re probably already aware, it’s illegal to drive with a suspended license. Despite this, many drivers still take to the road. For example, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety stated that there were 2.2 million drivers in Florida driving with revoked or suspended licenses.
Driving without a valid driver’s license can result in serious repercussions, depending on the state you live in. It could result in hefty fines, jail time and a revoking of your license for at least 12 months.
What to Do When Your License is Suspended
It is important that you comply with the legal requirements in order to have your license reinstated. If your license is suspended, make sure that you:
- Do not drive while your license is suspended. This will only make matters worse.
- Enroll in traffic school or a defensive-driving course. This will demonstrate to your insurance provider and state authorities that you are committed to improving your driving skills.
- File for SR 22 with your insurance company if the suspension is for a serious offense (e.g. a car accident).
- Pay all penalty fees for the reinstatement of your license.
How to Get Auto Insurance
Many drivers assume that getting car insurance after the suspension of a driver’s license is difficult. This doesn’t have to be the case. The following tips will help you get insurance after the reinstatement of your license.
- Check with your current provider
Check to see if your insurance provider will continue to provide you with coverage. Share with your provider the reason why your driver’s license was suspended. They may choose not to raise your insurance rates depending on the reason for suspension of your license.
- Shop for insurance
You should shop for another insurance provider if you are not able to get a good rate with your current provider. A good place to start is comparing online auto insurance quotes. This will ensure that you are able to get the best rate possible.
Be honest about your driving record; it’s crucial to getting an accurate premium quote. Bear in mind that there are some violations that will have you placed in the high-risk category. However, taking the time to compare insurance quotes will allow you to find the best rate possible without having to call a bunch of numbers or visit insurance agencies in person.
Time is on Your Side
If your license has been suspended for a long period of time, this could work in your favor. Having your license suspended will keep you from incurring other driving violations on your record. And remember, finding affordable auto insurance is easy, you just have to know where to look.
