If you are a Nebraska driver convicted of a serious driving violation, like a DUI, you may have to get SR-22 insurance to restore your driving privileges.
SR-22 insurance is not an actual insurance type, but rather a document that verifies you have the state’s mandated minimum liability coverage.
This article will clarify what SR-22 insurance is, when and why you might require it, the associated costs, and the process to obtain it.
Understanding Nebraska SR-22 Insurance
Definition and purpose
SR-22 insurance is a form that verifies to the state of Nebraska that you have at least the minimum amount of liability coverage required of you. In Nebraska, all drivers are required to have liability insurance coverage. You must have at least the following liability coverages and limits:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
SR-22 insurance ensures high-risk drivers pay for potential damages.
When is it required?
You may be required to obtain SR-22 insurance in Nebraska if you have been suspended or revoked as a result of:
- A court conviction for a serious offense, such as DUI, reckless driving, or driving without insurance
- Accumulation of 12 or more points on your driving record in less than two years
- Involvement in a reportable accident without proof of insurance
- An unsatisfied judgment related to an accident
If you require an SR-22, the Nebraska DMV will tell you.
Who might need it?
SR-22 insurance is typically required for drivers who have been deemed high-risk by the state due to their driving history. Some examples of drivers who might need SR-22 insurance are:
- Drivers who have been convicted of DUI or DWI
- Drivers who have been involved in multiple accidents or violations
- Drivers with suspended licenses
- Drivers who have been caught driving without insurance or proof of insurance
Length of time needed
The length of time you need to maintain SR-22 insurance in Nebraska depends on the reason for your suspension or revocation. Some common scenarios are:
- Point revocations: You need to file an SR-22 form for three years from the date you are eligible for reinstatement.
- No proof of insurance: You need to file an SR-22 form for three years from the date the ticket was issued.
- Court ordered revocations: You need to file an SR-22 form for three years from the date you are eligible for reinstatement.
- Accident suspensions: You need to file an SR-22 form only on the date of license reinstatement.
- Unsatisfied judgment suspensions: You need to file an SR-22 form only on the date of license reinstatement.
You must keep your SR-22 insurance active and up-to-date during the required period. Your insurance carrier will contact the DMV if you cancel or lapse your coverage, suspending your license again.
How Much Does Nebraska SR-22 Insurance Cost?
The average cost in Nebraska
The average cost of SR-22 insurance in Nebraska is higher than a standard policy because of the increased risk associated with high-risk drivers. Age, gender, location, driving record, car type, and insurance company determine the cost.
According to MoneyGeek, the average annual cost of minimum SR-22 insurance coverage in Nebraska is about $835 for drivers with a DUI, compared to just $459 for drivers without any violations. The cheapest SR-22 insurance company in Nebraska is State Farm, which costs $413 per year on average for a minimum policy. The most expensive is MetLife, which costs $2,035 per year on average.
Cost comparison with other states
Nebraska is one of 44 states that require SR-22 insurance for high-risk drivers. The cost of SR-22 insurance varies widely across states, depending on their laws, regulations, and market conditions.
Florida, Michigan, California, Texas, and New York have high SR-22 insurance costs, according to ValuePenguin. Maine, Idaho, Iowa, Vermont, and North Dakota are the cheapest.
DUI drivers in Nebraska pay $835 per year for SR-22 insurance, one of the lowest rates. The national average is $1,163.
Ways to reduce the cost
Many drivers struggle to afford SR-22 insurance, but there are methods to save. Some of the tips are:
- Shop around and compare quotes from different insurance companies. You may find a better deal with another provider that offers SR-22 insurance.
- Maintain a clean driving record and avoid any further violations or accidents. This will help you lower your risk profile and qualify for lower rates in the future.
- Ask your insurance company about discounts and savings. You may be eligible for some discounts based on your vehicle, mileage, safety features, payment method, or membership in certain groups or organizations.
- Increase your deductible. A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. By choosing a higher deductible, you can lower your premium, but make sure you can afford it in case of a claim.
- Reduce your coverage or drop optional coverages. If you have an older or less valuable vehicle, you may not need comprehensive or collision coverage, which are more expensive than liability coverage. However, be aware that this may expose you to more financial risk in case of an accident.
How to Obtain Nebraska SR-22 Insurance?
Finding an insurance provider
Not all insurance companies offer SR-22 insurance in Nebraska, so you may need to shop around and find a provider that does. You can use online tools and websites to compare quotes and reviews from different companies that offer SR-22 insurance in Nebraska.
Some of the popular insurance companies that offer SR-22 insurance in Nebraska are:
- State Farm
- Progressive
- American Family
- Farmers Mutual of Nebraska
- USAA
- Allstate
- Farm Bureau Mutual (IA Group)
- Allied
- GEICO
- Farmers
- AAA
- MetLife
Providing necessary documentation
Nebraska SR-22 insurance requires evidence like:
- Name, address, and birthdate
- Driver’s license number and state of issue
- Make, model, year, and VIN.
- Current insurance policy number and expiry date
- Your SR-22 cause and duration
Your insurance provider will verify and complete the SR-22 form.
Paying the required fees
Insurance companies charge fees to submit SR-22 forms to the DMV. Companies charge roughly $25. This one-time charge supports form processing.
To restore your license, you may need to pay additional expenses, such as the SR-22 filing fee:
- $50 reinstatement charge
- Your violation’s court fine.
- DUI offenders must pay for ignition interlock installation and upkeep.
Due to your high risk, your insurance premium will be higher.
Timeline for obtaining SR-22 insurance
Obtaining SR-22 insurance in Nebraska relies on how soon you can locate an insurance carrier, present documents, and pay the costs. Your insurance company’s DMV filing speed also matters.
Electronic filing is quicker and easier for certain insurance firms. Your DMV record will be updated.
After the DMV approves your SR-22 paperwork, you may restore your license and drive lawfully. SR-22 insurance must be maintained for the appropriate time. If you don’t, your license will be suspended again and you’ll start again.
