What Is SR22 Insurance in Nebraska?
What Is SR22 Insurance?
SR22 is not actually a type of insurance. Instead, it's a certificate of financial responsibility that proves you carry at least the minimum required liability insurance to drive legally. The SR22 is filed by your insurance company with the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
This certificate serves as a guarantee to the state that you have the necessary liability coverage to compensate for damages in the event of an accident.
Nebraska’s Minimum Insurance Requirements
Nebraska law mandates the following minimum coverage levels for liability insurance, which your SR22 filing will verify that you have:
$25,000
for bodily injury per person
$50,000
for bodily injury per accident
$25,000
for property damage
Your SR22 acts as proof that these coverage levels are met.
Who Needs SR22 Insurance in Nebraska?
SR22 insurance is typically required for high-risk drivers who have been involved in certain driving-related offenses. Common reasons why someone might need SR22 insurance in Nebraska include:
Driving Under the Influence (DUI):
A DUI conviction can lead to license suspension and requires filing an SR22 to reinstate your driving privileges.
Driving Without Insurance:
If you’re caught operating a vehicle without at least the minimum liability coverage, you may be required to file an SR22.
Reckless Driving:
This charge can result in mandatory SR22 filing, depending on the severity of the offense.
License Suspension or Revocation:
If your driving privileges have been suspended due to excessive traffic violations, an accident while uninsured, or failure to pay fines, you may be required to secure an SR22 to reinstate your license.
How SR22 Insurance Works in Nebraska
Filing the SR22
When you’re required to get SR22 insurance in Nebraska, the process typically involves these steps:
Contact an Insurance Provider:
Not all insurers offer SR22 coverage, so it’s important to confirm their ability to handle SR22 filings.
Pay the Filing Fee:
The insurance company will charge a filing fee, usually ranging from $15 to $25.
Insurer Files the Form:
Once you’ve secured the appropriate insurance policy and paid the fee, the company electronically files the SR22 with the Nebraska DMV.
Maintain Continuous Coverage:
Nebraska laws require that the SR22 remain active for a specified duration. If your policy lapses, the insurance provider will notify the DMV, potentially resulting in another suspension of your driving privileges.
Duration of SR22 Requirement
The period you need SR22 insurance varies based on the type and severity of your violation. However, in Nebraska, the standard requirement is typically three years. You must maintain uninterrupted coverage during this time.
If you switch insurance companies or fail to renew your policy, your SR22 status could be canceled, and your license may be suspended again.
Non-Owner SR22 Insurance
For Nebraskans who don’t own a vehicle but are still required to file an SR22, a non-owner SR22 policy can fulfill the state’s insurance requirements.
Non-owner SR22 insurance provides liability coverage when you drive a vehicle you don’t own, such as a rental car or a friend's vehicle. This option is ideal for those who drive infrequently or don’t want to purchase a traditional auto policy.
How to Obtain SR22 Insurance in Nebraska
Shopping for SR22 insurance in Nebraska may seem daunting, but with the right approach, it’s manageable. Here are some tips to help you find a policy that fits your needs:
Compare Quotes:
Prices can vary significantly between providers. Compare multiple quotes to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Ask About Discounts:
Some insurers offer discounts for safe driving courses or bundling policies.
Consider Non-Owner SR22 Insurance:
If you don’t own a car, non-owner SR22 insurance is an affordable alternative that fulfills the SR22 requirement.
Work With High-Risk Insurers:
Look for companies that specialize in high-risk insurance, as they’ll have tailored options for your situation.
Common SR22 Costs in Nebraska
Here’s what you might expect to pay when filing for SR22 insurance in Nebraska:
Filing Fee:
Most insurers charge a one-time fee of
$15–$50
to file the SR22 form with the DMV.
Higher Premiums:
On average, SR22 insurance can increase your premiums by
50% to 100%
, depending on your driving record, age, and location.
For instance, drivers in Omaha or Lincoln may see higher rates compared to smaller towns due to different traffic risks.
Scenario-Based Examples
To better understand how SR22 insurance applies in Nebraska, here are a few examples of real-world scenarios:
Omaha Driver with a DUI:
Rachel, a resident of Omaha, was charged with a DUI and had her license suspended. To regain driving privileges, she was required to file an SR22 and maintain it for three years with the minimum coverage limits of $25,000/$50,000/$25,000.
Uninsured Driver in Lincoln:
James was pulled over in Lincoln for a minor traffic violation, only to discover he didn’t have insurance at the time. To have his license reinstated after the suspension, he filed an SR22 through a state-approved insurance company.
Non-Owner Coverage in Bellevue:
Monica, a rideshare user in Bellevue, needed SR22 coverage after a reckless driving charge. Since she doesn’t own a vehicle, she opted for a non-owner SR22 policy to meet the state’s requirements.
FAQs About SR22 Insurance in Nebraska
How Do I Know If I Need SR22 Insurance?
You’ll likely receive a notification from the Nebraska DMV or a court order specifying this requirement as part of your reinstatement process.
Can I Drive Right After Getting SR22 Insurance?
You can legally drive once your SR22 certificate is filed and approved by the Nebraska DMV. Make sure you’ve also met all other reinstatement requirements, like paying fines or completing necessary classes.
What Happens If My SR22 Insurance Lapses?
If your SR22 policy is canceled or lapses, your insurer is required to notify the DMV. This could lead to another suspension of your license, and you may need to restart the SR22 process.
How to Avoid SR22 Requirements
The best way to avoid the complications of SR22 insurance is to maintain proper auto insurance coverage and follow Nebraska’s traffic laws. Avoiding offenses such as reckless driving, DUI, and driving uninsured ensures you won’t face the delay, increased premiums, and inconvenience associated with SR22 filings.
Final Thoughts
SR22 insurance can feel daunting, but understanding its purpose and process helps you move forward with confidence. By partnering with an insurer experienced in SR22 filings and maintaining continuous coverage, you can meet Nebraska’s requirements and work toward reinstating your driving privileges.
If you’re ready to start the filing process or have questions about SR22 insurance in Nebraska, many insurance providers are available to guide you every step of the way. Get started and ease your path back onto the road.
