SR-22 Insurance Florida | Tampa Traffic Defense Lawyer

SR-22 Insurance in Florida: A Guide for Tampa and Hillsborough County Drivers

If you’ve been told to get SR-22 insurance in Tampa, Florida, you’re likely dealing with a serious traffic issue. This could mean a suspended license or a major violation. At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we regularly help drivers in Tampa and Hillsborough County navigate these situations. This guide breaks down what SR-22 means, when it’s required, and how we can help protect your driving privileges.

What Is SR-22 Insurance?

Despite the name, SR-22 isn’t actually insurance. It’s a certificate your insurer files with the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). This filing proves you carry the state’s minimum liability coverage. Drivers usually need it after:

• Operating a vehicle without insurance
• Being convicted of reckless driving
• Repeated traffic offenses
• License suspension for unpaid child support or court fines

In short, the state uses SR-22 to monitor high-risk drivers and ensure they carry proper coverage.

When Tampa Drivers Need SR-22

Florida requires these minimum coverage levels for an SR-22 filing:

• $10,000 bodily injury per person
• $20,000 bodily injury per accident
• $10,000 property damage

Although these limits match the standard liability minimums, the SR-22 filing creates added risk. That’s why insurers often increase premiums. More importantly, the FLHSMV gets notified if your policy lapses, which can trigger another license suspension.

Understanding the Difference: FR-44 vs. SR-22

Some drivers confuse SR-22 with FR-44 insurance, but they serve different purposes. Florida uses FR-44 filings after a DUI conviction. These policies come with much higher limits:

• $100,000 bodily injury per person
• $300,000 per accident
• $50,000 property damage

If you’re facing a DUI charge in Tampa, our firm can explain how a potential conviction may impact your insurance and driving rights. We also fight to reduce or eliminate the penalties before you ever reach that point.

How Long You Must Maintain SR-22 in Tampa, Florida

Florida generally requires SR-22 for three continuous years. If you let your policy lapse, the clock restarts. Worse yet, the state can immediately suspend your license. To avoid this outcome, keep your policy active at all times—and notify your attorney if problems arise.

What if You Don’t Own a Vehicle?

If you’re required to file SR-22 but don’t own a car, you can still meet the requirement with a non-owner insurance policy. These policies cover liability when you drive a borrowed or rented vehicle. Many Tampa residents choose this option because it costs less than a full auto policy.

How Much Does SR-22 Insurance Cost?

Here’s what drivers in Hillsborough County can expect:

• Filing fee: Typically $15 to $25
• Premiums: Often 40–70% higher than standard rates
• Savings tip: Some insurers cater to high-risk drivers and may offer lower rates

Since insurance costs increase after a serious violation, our firm works proactively to fight the charge. By challenging the underlying case, we often help clients avoid the SR-22 requirement entirely.

Why You Need a Tampa Criminal Traffic Attorney

At The Brancato Law Firm, P.A., we don’t just react—we take the lead in defending your future. Whether you’re facing license suspension, reckless driving, or DUI, we focus on keeping your driving record clean and your insurance costs low. Our team regularly:

• Intervenes early to prevent charges from being filed
• Negotiates to reduce charges and avoid SR-22 or FR-44 filings
• Represents you at DHSMV hearings and in criminal court

Protect Your License with the Right Defense

SR-22 requirements don’t have to control your life. With the right legal defense, you may be able to eliminate the need for SR-22 insurance—or at least limit the damage. Our goal is to restore your license, reduce your financial burden, and protect your record.

Call The Brancato Law Firm, P.A. today at (813) 727-7159 or visit our criminal traffic defense page to schedule a consultation.