If your license is suspended following a major traffic violation, the state of Michigan may require you to file an SR22. An SR22 is a form you file with your auto insurance company that proves to the state you carry the mandatory minimum liability insurance coverage as an active driver.
An SR22 filing can be required for a number of reasons, some of which include:
- Operating while visually impaired (OWVI)
- Operating while intoxicated (OWI)
- Reckless driving
- Driving without insurance
- Other traffic violations
If required, you could have to maintain SR22 Insurance through your car insurance company for three years, depending on your case. In Michigan, there are two forms of financial responsibility insurance: owners and operators. Whichever you choose to file (or both through a combined policy) is determined by you and your driving preferences.
Mandatory Minimum Insurance Coverage in Michigan
As mentioned above, an SR-22 proves you carry the mandatory liability insurance as a driver in the state of Michigan. Outlined below is what that minimum coverage entails:
- $20,000 for bodily injury to one person
- $40,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $10,000 for property damage
Michigan’s OWVI/OWI Penalties
Michigan has a couple of levels when it comes to being charged with an alcohol-related traffic violation. The first is operating while visually impaired (OWVI). On a first offense, you could land in jail for up to 93 days and be facing a fine of $300. There is also the chance of community service and restrictions on your driver’s license.
The second level is operating while intoxicated (OWI). This conviction comes with some harsher penalties than those outlined for OWVI. If convicted of an OWI, you could be facing a fine from anywhere between $100-$500 and up to 93 days of jail time. Your license will be suspended for 30 days then restricted for 150 days. You could also be required to install a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) on your vehicle.
Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID) Requirements in Michigan
As mentioned previously, if convicted of an OWI, license suspension and SR22 filing are not the only things you will be facing. On top of the other penalties outlined, there is a chance you will be required to install a breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BAIID). A BAIID is a breath alcohol analyzer that prevents your car from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath. Driving privileges will not be reinstated until the installation of such a device, according to the Michigan Secretary of State office.