If you’ve ever gotten a DUI or been convicted of driving without auto insurance, you could be required to carry something called an SR-22 (or Financial Responsibility R-22 Insurance). It’s not in fact insurance, but a requirement tacked on to your insurance. It helps states like Illinois keep tabs of problem drivers based on their history of infractions.

What Is an SR-22?

An SR-22 is essentially a document that shows that you meet the minimum auto insurance requirements in your state. It’s good to know about this rule and how to acquire one if it has been mandated by a court or the DMV notifies you that you need one. The last thing you want is one more driving-related problem – like yet another fine because you weren’t properly insured.

Who Needs to Carry SR-22 in Illinois?

This type of insurance is required for specific groups of “problem” drivers. Different states may have their own laws, so it’s important to find out what the requirements are in your area, as well as in your individual situation.

According to the Illinois secretary of state, the SR-22 is intended for Illinoisans who have experienced:

• A safety responsibility suspension
• An unsatisfied judgment suspension
• The revocation of their driver’s license
• A mandatory insurance supervision
• At least three traffic-related convictions

Once you’ve gotten the ok to drive and you have car insurance that includes an SR-22, get ready to hit the road again using these helpful tips to stay comfortable.

Why Are Some Drivers Required to Have SR-22?

The rate of deaths caused by crashes has been on the decline in recent years. Still, estimates show there were nearly 40,000 fatalities in 2024 due to car accidents in the U.S., according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, and no one wants to be on either end of that equation.

Having an SR-22 doesn’t mean you’re a bad driver, although if you struggle with safety behind the wheel, another form of transportation might be a better option than driving. It is simply a temporary remedy that enables states to track drivers who have had insurance-related or driving-related issues, particularly if they are repeat offenders.

What Is a Certificate of Responsibility?

If you obtain an SR-22, make sure it comes with a Certificate of Responsibility. This shows it is legit and you have gone through the proper procedures in getting one.

Does SR-22 Provide Extra Auto Insurance Coverage?

No, the SR-22 does not provide extra coverage, as it is not a form of insurance. It confirms that an individual meets the minimal liability insurance requirements, but it does not provide any insurance itself.

Does Getting SR-22 Cost Anything?

While you’re not buying insurance, there may be a small processing fee for acquiring the SR-22. Ask an Amigo insurance agent about any fees you may need to pay. This is also an opportunity to find out if your premiums will go up. If you’re concerned about rate hikes, it may be worth shopping around for more affordable options.

Check out these recommendations for lowering the cost of insurance.

For How Long Do You Need SR-22?

Once an SR-22 has been mandated, states like Illinois usually require drivers to maintain it for three years. However, laws may vary. If a court or department of motor vehicles (DMV) has ordered you to carry SR-22, find out about any requirements such as the length of time you need to carry it.

Add SR-22 to Your Plan Through AMIGO Insurance

Folks who need SR-22 insurance should reach out to an insurer that is authorized to include it in their plans. That’s what makes Amigo Insurance so convenient. We will inform you about different companies that offer it and help you get the most affordable option.

Call or stop by any of our many locations to find out if you need an SR-22 and ask about getting the insurance you need.

Are you seeking the best auto insurance plan for your situation? Look no further than Amigo Insurance. With 26 convenient locations available throughout the Chicagoland area, you can find one close to you and get all of your questions answered in person. That includes numerous suburban locations, too, from Aurora to Elgin to Palatine, and elsewhere.

Easy Access to Auto Insurance

Our team makes it easy! Even if you’re covered but want to explore better options, we are here for you. Here’s all you need to do.

Request a quote: Start by entering your zip code online. You will be asked to enter some details like your address and whether you are currently insured.
Examine your options: We help Chicagoans by narrowing down the options. There are different levels of liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, along with other coverage possibilities.
Select the best one: Once you’ve found the right policy, you’re ready to make a selection.

Within minutes, you can be ready to hit the road. If you’re not sure what kind to get, you can speak with an online agent in English or Spanish who is trained to answer your questions. For in-person, find the closest Amigo Insurance location.

What Coverage to Include

Insurance rates vary. As you review your options, you will need to make some decisions. It’s best to be as informed as possible before making any decisions. There are many possible forms of coverage. Basic auto insurance typically includes:

Liability Coverage: This protects you by covering costs resulting from car repairs or injuries to others if you are at fault in an accident.
Medical Expenses: There is coverage for medical expenses and sometimes wages lost due to an accident, no matter who was at fault.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist: This is also often a part of basic plans.

Consider Affordability

It’s important to select the policy that matches your needs as well as your budget. Whether online, over the phone, or in person, proper vehicle insurance is within reach. Here’s what to know:

Inquire about discounts: Illinois drivers have access to potential discounts. They may be available for students, seniors, multiple-car families, or based on your driving record.
Consider other factors: What’s in your budget? Take into account your deductible, what premium you can afford each month, and what happens if you are in an accident.
Compare rates: Ask for multiple quotes so you can make a more informed comparison.

Why Choose Amigo?

For years, Amigo Insurance has been helping drivers throughout many states as well as Mexico select excellent auto insurance. Because we have so many storefronts in the greater Chicagoland area, you are never on your own. Why else should you choose us?

Flexibility: Insurance can be altered if your situation changes. If you need to adjust coverage, change an address, or add someone to your policy, just let us know.
Customer service: Selecting a plan can be hard at first. We will patiently answer your questions until you’re sure what you need.
Widely recognized name: Work with us and you’ll find out why our presence is trusted and growing nationally.

Chicago Drivers: Get Your FREE Quote Today!

Local residents don’t just come to us for the free quotes on affordable auto insurance, although that’s a big part of it. What they appreciate the most is the patience of our customer service reps. Auto insurance plans can be complex, and it helps to have a human being walk you through all the information so you’re ready to choose a plan.

Call Amigo for a FREE QUOTE, and find out why drivers throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs come to us for auto insurance.

Itching to pack a bag and hit the road? With heat waves already upon drivers from Texas to Indiana, it’s particularly vital to do what you can to keep your car engine at reasonable temperatures so it doesn’t overheat this summer.

Taking the steps below will help extend the life of your vehicle and offer extra protection when you’re away from home.

1. Check Your Coolant Levels

Why: Dangerously low coolant is less effective at transferring heat away from the engine.

This important reminder made it into our recent blog about things to keep in your car in summer. What we didn’t mention is how easy it is to check it. As long as you can locate the coolant reservoir, or tank, you’ll be able to size up the situation and determine if more is needed.

2. Inspect Your Vehicle’s Radiator and Hoses

Why: Cracks or leaks in this area can prevent the proper flow of coolant, as well.

You might want a mechanic for this one. Have these parts inspected while the engine is still a little warm, which can make it easier to detect problem areas. If you’ve had a recent oil change, you may be in luck. It is often a standard part of that process.

Periodically flushing the radiator is another way to avoid buildup that can lead to overheating. Your auto manual should have more on how often this should take place.

3. Does Your Car’s Thermostat Work Properly?

Why: A faulty thermostat can either hinder the circulation of coolant – overheating the engine – or give you an inaccurate reading.

Your car’s coolant system is a complex creature. Various issues may cause a thermostat to stop working properly, whether due to wear and tear over time, corrosion, or an electrical failure somewhere if it operates digitally. A malfunctioning thermostat might also point to coolant problems described earlier.

4. Monitor the Temperature Gauge for Signs of Trouble

Why: Early signs of overheating give you time to react before damage occurs.

Just like with the thermostat, this is yet another piece of the puzzle when it comes to detecting overheating problems in the engine. No matter the cause, get to the root of the problem if you suspect your readings aren’t reliable.

5. Use Sunshades and Park in Shade or Air Conditioned Garages

Why: Keeps everything cooler, reducing interior damage and strain on the cooling system.

It’s easy to go for the closest spot and leave your poor car baking in the sun. There’s a better solution. Park where your vehicle will remain shaded for more time, keeping in mind the direction of shadows as they move. Air conditioning is your best bet on especially hot days.

Dash and windshield shades can also help keep the interior at more bearable temperatures.

6. Chill Out: Avoid Aggressive Driving

Why: Unnecessary strain on the engine raises its temperature.

Not that there is ever a good time to drive aggressively, but remember to be cool in hot weather. This is not the time for driving behavior that may heat up the engine even more than it already is.

7. Keep the AC Condenser Clean

Why: An obstructed condenser reduces airflow and loses its efficiency.

When you go in for your next inspection, ask about the condition of your AC condenser so that you and your passengers stay cool on all your summer drives.

8. Inspect Your Auto Coverage Through AMIGO Insurance

Having good auto insurance is key in all seasons. An agent at Amigo Insurance will walk you through your insurance options and make sure you understand the finer details.

Why pay more than you have to? Call Amigo and get a FREE QUOTE today!

Lots of things make road trips more fun. Portable games, snacks and good company come to mind. Then there are those necessities that should not be overlooked – especially in summer. While some supplies will depend on where you’re headed, five must-haves can be a lifesaver on the road.

1. Safe, Non-Plastic Water Bottles

With so many options on the market, it’s much easier to avoid cheap, plastic water containers. Plastic water bottles left in the heat have been shown to leach chemicals into the water. The hotter it is, the worse the problem gets.

Stainless steel bottles and non-toxic containers don’t pose the same risks. What’s important is that you trust the product to withstand the temperatures wherever you are headed. Find the variety that you prefer, like a thermos that will keep your water cool for longer and can be refilled on the road.

2. Portable Phone Charger (Power Bank)

Many of us take for granted how easy it is to recharge our phones – until they stop working in a far-off rural area with no way to recharge. If your car breaks down or you get lost in an area without cell service, you will be relieved to have a fully charged phone to call for help as well as to help you navigate your way out.

Consider choosing a high-capacity (10,000mAh or more) model that can handle extreme temperatures and charge a smartphone multiple times. As with other plastic items, it should be stored out of direct sunlight – like in the glove compartment or center console – to prevent overheating or battery damage.

3. Coolant/Antifreeze, Funnel and Extra Water

Savvy travelers often keep a jug of water in the trunk, as well. If the radiator overheats, dousing it with water may cool it down. However, it helps to be familiar with this issue to address it properly. If you are low on coolant (a.k.a. antifreeze), water won’t fix the problem. Extra coolant and a funnel will help you replenish it and protect your engine from damage.

Be sure any fluids you take on the road are suitable for your vehicle. A trusted mechanic can let you know what else to bring before heading out for long periods in high temperatures.

4. Sun Protection Kit (Hat, Sunscreen, and Sunglasses)

It’s easy to forget about the need for sun protection from inside a car. But UV exposure can still be a risk on long drives, especially through windows that don’t block all UV rays. Without sunblock and a comfortable pair of shades, skin damage and eye strain can build up after hours of driving.

Don’t forget wide-brimmed hats and your favorite SPF lip balm! As for sun block, consider more than one type: such as broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen for drives, and SPF 50 or higher for hikes and pit stops. Keeping these items in a small pouch in a shaded part of the car will keep them cooler, as well.

5. Spare Tire & Tool Kit or Tire Repair Kit

A flat tire is one of the most common roadside issues during drives on overheated pavement. No one wants to be left stranded in an unfamiliar area, and not every car comes with a spare tire anymore.

If you know how to change a tire, maybe the spare and toolset are all you need. A repair kit lets you patch and re-inflate the tire enough to reach a service station. Having both options isn’t a bad idea, as long as someone in the vehicle knows how to use them. Look for a kit that includes plug tools and tire sealant or a compressor with built-in sealant. Find out if you’ll need a power source, like your 12V car outlet, and make sure your spare is still inflated.

Comprehensive Auto Coverage from AMIGO Insurance

Before you leave, be sure you have comprehensive auto insurance that covers all the bases. Talk to an agent at Amigo about your situation so you get the most appropriate and economical package.

Get your FREE QUOTE from Amigo Insurance today!

There are various effective ways to lower the cost of car ownership, some of which might get lost in the weeds if you’re too focused on a single approach. At-home workers in places like Chicago who drive minimally may need to make different changes to lower their costs than someone who’s job takes them on the road.

Are there strategies you haven’t explored recently?

1. Lower Your Auto Insurance Premiums

One of the easiest ways to cut down your car costs is to shop around for cheaper car insurance. Overall rates dipped recently, and the cost can vary significantly between insurers, so don’t just auto-renew every year. Get quotes from at least three companies, including multiple estimates per company based on these variables:

1. Raising your deductible while making sure you can cover the difference in case of an accident
2. Bundling policies like home and auto or other discounts
3. Lower rates for safe drivers, students with good grades, or those who take defensive driving courses

To clarify your options, ask the insurance provider what changes you can make that will reduce the company’s risk or demonstrate that you’re a responsible driver, and reward you with better rates.

2. Drive for Optimal Fuel Efficiency

Gas adds up fast, but small changes in driving habits and maintenance can make a noticeable difference. Anything that reduces the strain on your engine should make the vehicle operate more efficiently, causing your car to use less fuel and your gas dollars go further.

• Keep your tires properly inflated, since underinflated ones can reduce fuel economy by up to 3%.
• Drive smoothly, avoid rapid acceleration and heavy braking, and use cruise control on highways to maintain consistent speed.
• Remove excess weight from your car, like unused roof racks or heavy gear in the trunk.

3. Consider Refinancing Your Auto Loan

If your credit score has improved or interest rates have dropped since you bought your car, refinancing your auto loan could save you a lot of money. By switching to a new loan with a lower interest rate, you should be able to cut your monthly payments and reduce the total amount you pay over time, since less interest will accumulate over the life of the loan. Even shaving off 1-2% could translate into hundreds of dollars saved. Just check for any prepayment penalties on your current loan before making the switch.

4. Address Other Wasteful Driving Habits

If you already have the best loan and insurance rates and fuel-efficient habits, the next best solution may be simply to drive less, at least for now. Is it necessary to drive to run all of your errands? Try combining tasks so you’re making fewer trips in your vehicle. If you commute every day, choose one day a week to use public transportation. If you have been carting the kids around to all their extracurriculars, see if they can carpool with their friends or go by other means.

Other tactics worth trying:

• Focus on safety to avoid accidents and limit wear and tear on your vehicle.
• Avoid going over 60 mph, at which point AAA says most vehicle’s fuel efficiency peaks.
• Lease a cheaper, less flashy vehicle if you habitually lease costly models.
• Trade in your gas guzzler for a smaller, less expensive ride.

5. Do Maintenance and Repairs in a Cost-Effective Manner

Preventative maintenance might feel like a chore, but it’s a major money-saver in the long run. Stick to your car’s service schedule for things like oil changes, brake checks, and fluid replacements. Catching problems early helps avoid big, expensive breakdowns. Perhaps you could learn to do simple fixes yourself – like changing the air filters, wiper blades, or spark plugs.

When repairs do come up, always get a second quote. Being proactive keeps your car in good shape longer, which means fewer costly surprises and a better resale value down the line.

Get a Free Quote from AMIGO Insurance to Lower Your Auto Rates

At Amigo, we know that the cost to fix or replace a vehicle can add up quickly. That’s why we help drivers access low-cost auto insurance that can still protect them financially.

Get a FREE QUOTE today and find out how much you could be saving ASAP!