Protect Your Texas Driving Privileges: A Guide to Navigating Crash Suspensions

Driver License Suspension Attorney

Facing a driver’s license suspension can be a confusing and stressful experience, especially when it stems from an automobile crash. At The Beltz Law Group, we understand the critical importance of maintaining your driving privileges. This article outlines the proper procedures you must follow to protect your license when facing a Crash Suspension under the Texas Safety Responsibility Act.

1. Understanding a Texas Crash Suspension

Your Texas driver’s license can be suspended if you meet all of the following criteria related to an automobile crash:

• You were involved in a crash.
• The investigating officer listed contributing factors that suggest you were responsible.
• You lacked automobile insurance at the time of the crash.
• The crash resulted in injury, death, and/or property damage of $1,000 or more.

2. The Critical 20-Day Window: Requesting a Hearing

If the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) initiates a suspension, they will notify you by mail at the address on record for your license. This notice is your call to action.

Your Right to Contest the Suspension

The notice will inform you of the reason for the suspension and provide you with an option for a hearing. To challenge the suspension and protect your license, you must request a hearing within 20 days of the date on the notice.

How to Request a Hearing

Your request must include your full name, date of birth, Texas DL/ID number, and current mailing address. You can submit your request via one of the following methods:

Crucial Warning: If your request is submitted outside the allowable 20 days, your request will be denied, and your license will be suspended on the 21st day. Do not delay!

3. Reinstatement Requirements After a Crash Suspension

Driver License Suspension Lawyer

If the suspension is upheld or if you miss the hearing deadline, you must meet specific requirements to reinstate your driving privileges.

To reinstate your license, you must first pay the required $100 Reinstatement fee, plus any other outstanding fees. You must then submit one of the following documents to the DPS:

1. Proof of Insurance: Evidence that you had liability insurance at the time of the crash.
2. Notarized Release (SR-11): A form signed by the other party releasing you from liability or judgment.
3. Installment Agreement (SR-19): A properly executed agreement to pay damages in installments. Be aware that defaulting on this agreement will lead to a new suspension.
4. Deposit and SR-22/SR-22a: Deposit a cashier’s check or money order, submit a Financial Responsibility Insurance Certificate (SR-22) as proof of future liability insurance, and an SR-22a certifying the policy is pre-paid for at least six months.

Two-Year Exception

If two years have passed since the date of the crash and there are no civil suits pending or unpaid judgments, you may apply for reinstatement by filing an Affidavit of No Suit Filed within Two Years (SR-60) and paying the reinstatement fee.

4. Navigating a Judgment Suspension

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If the DPS receives a certified copy of an unsatisfied judgment arising from the crash, both the driver and the vehicle owner against whom the judgment was rendered are subject to a suspension.

Reinstatement After a Judgment Suspension

To reinstate your license after a judgment suspension, you must pay the $100 Reinstatement fee and any other outstanding fees. You must then submit one of the following documents to the DPS:

1. Notarized Release (SR-11): Indicating the judgment has been satisfied.
2. Court Approved Installment Agreement: Again, defaulting on this leads to re-suspension.
3. Judgment Creditor’s Consent (SR-84).

Additionally: If it has been less than two years since the date the judgment was rendered, a Financial Responsibility Insurance Certificate (SR-22) is required.

5. Seeking an Occupational License

If your regular driver’s license is suspended, you may be eligible to apply for an Occupational License. This special license allows you to drive legally for work, school, and essential household duties. Determining your eligibility and the application process requires careful attention to detail, and this is where legal guidance is invaluable.

Check Your Status and Get Help

The process for a crash suspension is complex and unforgiving of errors or missed deadlines.

• You can check the status of your driver’s license and determine your eligibility for reinstatement on the DPS License Eligibility webpage.

Don’t risk losing your right to drive. If you have been involved in a crash that may lead to a suspension, contact The Beltz Law Group today. We can help you navigate the hearing request process, understand the reinstatement requirements, and determine your eligibility for an occupational license. Protecting your privilege to drive is our top priority.