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Click here to view our interactive map with penalties for each state
Things to remember...
Each state has specific penalties for driving uninsured or without proper proof of financial responsibility
Fines for driving uninsured range anywhere from $75 to $5,000
There are ways to lessen or even have the charges dismissed against you
Getting caught driving without insurance could keep you from receiving affordable auto insurance rates in the future
In the United States, every state requires proof of financial responsibility for you to drive a car.
While most states require specific amounts and types of auto insurance coverage, there are three states — Arizona, New Hampshire, and Virginia — that will allow drivers like you to prove financial responsibility in other ways.
Even in the three states mentioned above, purchasing your state’s minimum required auto insurance coverage is always a better option than choosing to drive uninsured and incur the full costs of any potential damages or injuries.
In addition to having minimum requirements for auto insurance, each state also has specific penalties for driving uninsured or without proper proof of financial responsibility. Depending on the state, these penalties may include:
Keep reading to discover the penalties you could receive, should you choose to drive without insurance where you live. Also, read through some of our tips for lessening these consequences.
If you don’t have auto insurance, don’t wait any longer. Enter your ZIP code now to compare quotes from several companies!
Penalties by State for Driving Without Insurance
Click here to view our interactive map with penalties for each state
To offer detailed information on penalties, we’ve created an interactive graphic with potential penalties for every state if you are caught driving uninsured.
It is important to note that we have only included penalties for first and second offenses. Keep in mind that if you are found guilty of more than two offenses, you could face even severer penalties.
Fines for driving uninsured range anywhere from $75 to $5,000, depending on the offense and where you live. The states with the most expensive fines, up to $5,000, are:
Massachusettes
New Jersey
West Virginia
Twelve out of the 50 U.S. states do not penalize you with fines for driving uninsured. These states include:
Alaska
Florida
Georgia
Illinois
Indiana
Maryland
Missouri
Nebraska
New Hampshire
Ohio
Pennsylvania
Tennessee
Instead of issuing fines for driving without insurance, these states offer punishments that include:
Points against your driving record
Suspension of your license and/or registration
Fees for reinstatement of a license or registration
In Maryland, anyone caught driving uninsured is required to pay uninsured motorist penalty fees for each lapse of insurance: $150 for the first 30 days and then $7 for each day afterward.
It is also worth noting that if you get caught driving without insurance in Iowa, you can choose to participate in community service instead of paying the associated fees.
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Three Tips on Lessening the Consequences
After reading about the penalties you could face for driving uninsured, you may be wondering what your options are should you ever get caught driving without the proper coverage.
Believe it or not, there are ways to lessen or even have the charges dismissed against you for driving without insurance. However, this possibility will greatly depend on your state’s traffic code, your local law enforcement policies, and your unique situation. We recommend you seek legal advice.
#1 – Highlight Your Circumstances
Rather than disputing that an offense occurred, you may be able to argue that a specific circumstance existed in your case to excuse or justify the violation.
For instance, in Texas, the traffic code exempts vehicles — that are possessed solely for purposes of repair — from the insurance requirement.
Some states also provide exceptions for vintage cars that are not used for “regular transport.” If your vehicle fits this category, you may be able to lessen your penalties for driving uninsured.
#2 – Be Proactive
If you are caught driving uninsured, you may receive grace if you seek auto insurance coverage soon after.
Some states reward drivers who respond to a citation by quickly obtaining auto liability coverage. Even if your state does not react this way, it is possible that your local prosecuting office may have adopted this type of policy.
If you can show that you quickly corrected the problem and received the proper coverage, you may be eligible for a dismissal of or a reduction in fines and other penalties, which can lessen the eventual negative impact on your finances and your current and future insurance rates.
#3 – Mention that You Have the Proper Coverage
If you have always had auto insurance but simply forgot or misplaced your proof of coverage, you may be in luck! Many states and prosecuting offices will dismiss or reduce sentences upon verifying that you did have valid insurance at the time of your citation.
Make the Smart Choice
No matter where you live or what your circumstances are, driving without auto insurance is not a good idea.
Not only can driving uninsured negatively affect you in the present moment with all the possible penalties, but it can also potentially hurt your chances at receiving affordable auto insurance rates in the future.
If you are looking to insure yourself and your vehicle, compare at least three to four policies to find the best and most affordable auto insurance coverage!
You may find your auto insurance premiums increase when you move for a variety of reasons
You can ask about discounts to help decrease your premium
Moving out of state can come with many extraneous tasks, including those affiliated with car ownership.
If you are planning a move out of state, now is the right time to use an online price comparison tool to make sure you are paying the best rates possible on a policy that is right for you and for your financial and driving situation.
Looking for better auto insurance rates before the move? Start comparison shopping today by entering your ZIP code above!
Auto Insurance Laws
No matter where you live or where you move to, you will likely be legally obligated to secure some type of auto insurance. Auto insurance protects you and others on the road.
Even though laws regarding auto insurance types and limits will vary from one state to the next, you are unlikely to escape this driving responsibility.
Penalties for No Insurance
Driving without insurance is a serious matter. Just like auto insurance requirements are different for each state, so are the consequences for driving without insurance.
However, no matter where you live, if you are caught without the proper insurance coverage, you will likely face all or any of the following penalties:
In addition to these consequences, if you cause damage to other people or their property, you will more than likely be forced to pay out of your own pocket to rectify their costs.
Costs can include medical bills, funeral expenses, lost wages, and repairs or replacements on vehicles.
The other parties involved can sue you in civil court in order to get their bills paid by you. Being sued can potentially lead to wage garnishment and seizure of your assets.
Moving Out of State and Auto Insurance
Among many other factors that must be attended to when you are planning to move out of state, auto insurance is one of the most often overlooked, yet important ones.
Since auto insurance requirements and coverage plans will not be the same in every state, it is important to start a new insurance policy as soon as you move.
If you currently have auto insurance through a local agent, you will need to contact him or her and let them know of your impending move. An agent should be able to refer you to an agent within the same company in the area where you will be moving.
Your present and new agent should be able to help you cancel your old policy and begin a new one, effective when your move is complete.
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If you have insurance through a national company and not directly through an agent, call them when you have the details about where and when you will be moving. They can set up a new policy to start when you need it to that will be compliant with the auto insurance laws in your new state.
Since you are already considering setting up a new policy, it may also be the perfect time to shop around for car insurance and to learn more about your options.
It is extremely important that you have the appropriate coverage for the state you will be living in. No matter how busy and stressed you are or how long your to-do list is for moving, do not forget this step.
Other Car Related Moving Duties
In addition to making sure you have car insurance in your new home state, there are other responsibilities you have as a driver.
Most areas require you to get a new driver’s license and switch your vehicle’s license plates and registration within 30 days of establishing residency in the new state.
Asking About Discounts
When moving out of state, you do run the risk of having your premiums increase.
Increased premiums could be due to the different requirements from one state to the next or even that your new state has higher rates of accidents and lawsuits.
Now is a good time to be sure you are getting the most out of any discounts that are available to you. Many times you do need to specifically ask for auto insurance discounts as they are not automatically applied to your account.
Here are some common discounts to ask your car insurance carrier about:
Safe driver – If you have a record of good driving or have recently taken a defensive driving course, you may qualify for a significant safe driver discount.
Good student – If you have a teenager on your policy that earns good grades, ask your agent or company about a good student discount.
College student – Sometimes if you have college students on your policy that attend school out of state or so many miles from home, they can qualify for some type of discount.
Veterans – Many auto insurance companies honor veterans by offering them discounts on their auto policies.
Professional – If you are a doctor, nurse, police officer, EMS, or another type of first responder or professional that serves the community, your auto insurance carrier may offer you a professional discount.
Safe vehicle – If your car has safety features, such as airbags, ABS brakes, cameras for backing up, or a variety of other special safety features, you may be eligible for another discount.
Low mileage – If you do not drive very far on a daily or weekly basis to work to school, it may be to your benefit when it comes to your auto insurance premium. This is because you are less of a risk to your auto insurance company with fewer miles driven on the road.
Claims free – If you have never made an auto insurance claim or it has been a while since you have filed a claim, it may pay off in the form of a discount on your auto insurance policy. Check with your carrier on their specifics.
Multi-vehicle – It can pay to have multiple vehicles on one policy with the same company. Most car insurance companies will give drivers in this situation a decent discount on their premium.
Multi-policy – It can also pay off to have multiple insurance policies with the same company as your auto insurance, such as your renters, homeowners, life, or even pet insurance.
Other Ways to Save on Your Auto Insurance Premium
In addition to asking about discounts, there are other ways you can reduce your auto insurance premium, such as:
– Parking in a Garage
Your auto insurance premium is based mainly on the risk the insurance company takes to insure you. If you park your car in a garage, it is less likely to be vandalized, stolen, or damaged by hail or other weather elements.
You may end up paying a lower premium than people who do not park their vehicle in a garage.
– Working or Going to School Close to Home
Not putting as many miles per year on your vehicle by working or going to school close to home can also help control your auto insurance premium, not to mention how much you pay at the pump.
– Selecting a New Car Based on Insurance Rates
If you are or soon will be shopping for a new vehicle, talk to your insurance company about what types of cars have lower premiums.
Although moving out of state can leave you with lots of things to do in a short amount of time, it is very important to get your auto insurance switched to your new state. Not doing so can lead to serious financial and legal consequences.
One benefit of needing to do switch is that it is a good time to use an online price comparison tool to make sure you are getting the best rate that you can.
Try our FREE online quote tool and start comparing auto insurance rates today! Enter your ZIP code below!
Car seats are required by the majority of states in order to protect infants and small children in case of a car accident
After an accident, if you need to have a car seat replaced, your comprehensive insurance policy may cover the cost of the replacement
Even if a car seat does not appear to be damaged in an accident, it is much better to be safe than sorry in having a fully functioning car seat
In addition to getting the car seat covered by your insurance company, it is important to make sure that it is also installed correctly so that your child is always safe
If you are transporting a child in your car, it is imperative that you find and install the appropriate car seat. The age and weight of the child determine whether a car seat is necessary for them.
It is recommended that the car seat is placed behind the front seats and facing to the rear.
There are different laws in each state mandating the use of a car seat for children of certain ages and weights as well as the use of a safety belt. If you are involved in an accident with a car seat in your car, you should have the car seat replaced before using it.
State Laws Mandating the Use of Car Seats for Infants and Small Children
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), if your child is 12 years old or younger, he or she should be riding in the back seat of the car and with a properly fastened seat belt.
When your child has outgrown his or her car seat, they are required to transition to a booster seat in every state except for Florida and South Dakota until they have grown enough to use an adult seat belt. The requirements vary by state according to the age and weight of your child.
Even if you are waiting for your car insurance company to cover the cost of a replacement car seat, it is important to have a replacement seat installed in the meantime.
It is unsafe to drive with your infant or small child in the car with you even for a short distance if your child is not in the appropriate car seat.
Besides the obvious safety concerns, you could also get an expensive and frustrating ticket from a police officer for not having the required child safety car seat in your car.
The state fines for child car seat offenses increase with each additional offense.
Recovering for the Cost of Replacing a Car Seat After an Accident
If the other driver was at fault for the crash, then you file a claim through their insurance policy to include the cost of having your car seat replaced. Make sure to keep copies of all receipts documenting the cost of replacing the car seat when you file your claim.
If you are in one of the 12 states in the country with a no-fault car insurance system, then your own insurance company would be responsible for replacing the car seat.
Some states, such as Illinois, even require the car insurance company to accept responsibility for replacing the cost of a car seat after an accident.
If your car insurance company seems reluctant to cover the cost of a replacement car seat, you can always show them a copy of the manual for your car seat, which will almost certainly advise that a car seat cannot be used again after a car crash.
For some insurance companies, they will only cover the cost of replacing a car seat if it was actually occupied by a child passenger at the time of the accident. This will vary by different insurance companies.
You are not necessarily obligated to get the exact same model that you had before after a car crash. For example, you may want to purchase another size if your child was about to outgrow his current car seat.
Just make sure that you keep all receipts and documents related to your expenses after a car crash in case you have any problems with getting reimbursed for the replacement.
If your insurance company gives you a problem with reimbursing the cost of your car seat after an accident, then this may be a sign that you should find another insurer.
This is where the quality of service is just as important as the low price you pay for car insurance.
It is easy to obtain quotes online from different companies, and you should consult friends and families about their experiences in filing a claim through their car insurance companies for further research.
The Final Word on Auto Insurance Coverage for Car Seats
It is against the law in the majority of states to transport a child in your car without the proper car seat. If your car is involved in an accident, it is probably a good idea to have the car seat replaced regardless of whether you can specifically identify any damage to it.
If you have comprehensive car insurance, you can probably have the cost of replacing the car seat reimbursed under your policy. The other driver’s insurance company will cover the cost of replacing your car seat if the other driver caused the car accident.
Make sure that when you install the new car seat, you are following all safety instructions from the manufacturer.
Uber is a transportation network company, or more commonly known as a ridesharing service. Services like this are normally operated by a driver using their personal vehicle, and passengers request the service through a mobile application or website.
One of the biggest things that make this service different than a traditional taxi service is the use of personal vehicles rather than company-owned vehicles.
In addition to the use of personal vehicles, the requirements at the state and local levels are much different for ridesharing services. Taxi services, for instance, require licensing, vehicle inspections, and liability insurance that protects the passengers.
Ridesharing services such as Uber do not fall within these same requirements, meaning they may not offer the same protections to passengers or third parties.
Do services like Uber provide insurance coverage?
Services like Uber often provide primary insurance to drivers, but these amounts of coverage may not fully protect drivers from physical damages or liability incidents.
In addition to physical damages or liability incidents, services like Uber usually do not provide coverage for uninsured or underinsured drivers.
This means that being involved in an accident with one of these drivers could leave you paying out of pocket for damages or injuries.
When you begin driving for a service like Uber, it’s important to start asking questions about the coverage options available to you, as well as any coverage that is your responsibility. Also, ask them about the claim process and whether their insurance would act as the primary coverage.
Understanding in which situations your coverage will protect you will help as you shop around for insurance that meets your needs.
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Will your personal auto policy provide coverage while driving for Uber?
While some rideshare companies may require personal auto insurance to drive for them, there is still confusion surrounding the coverage that your personal policy provides and the coverage that a commercial policy provides.
Insurance providers and legislators have recognized that there is a lack of understanding regarding this coverage gap and are actively working to define what is legally required to drive for ridesharing services like Uber.
Although they are working towards a solution, some insurance providers are hesitant to provider coverage until they fully understand the exposure risk services like Uber introduce.
When you begin driving for a service like Uber, it’s important to talk to any potential insurance provider about the coverage options available.
As ridesharing services have grown in popularity, some insurance providers offer specialty coverage designed for the unique exposure risks a rideshare driver is exposed to.
In addition to purchasing coverage designed for services like Uber, legislation is beginning to come into play to help regulate these types of companies.
In some states, it is required that proof of insurance is visible anytime a driver is operating the ridesharing application. Also, it may be required to report to your insurance provider that you were working as a rideshare driver if you are involved in an accident.
Risks of Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber are a heavily relied on service in many areas, which means drivers for these companies need to understand the risks they’re taking on. These risks include low insurance limits, the risk to their personal vehicle, and risk to their passengers or a third party.
Lawmakers are still working out how these ridesharing services will be required to operate in many regards, including insurance requirements.
While every state has different insurance regulations already in place, this makes defining how services like Uber operate even more difficult. If you have questions about how your coverage works as an Uber driver, contact your insurance provider or your state’s Department or Insurance.
Car insurance saves you from legal actions and loss
The coverage also provides peace of mind when you are driving
Auto insurance protects your property and makes it easier to replace or repair damages
Car insurance, or proof of financial responsibility, is required in every state in the U.S.
There are major reasons why most states require car insurance. In order for you to understand just how vital auto insurance coverage is, read the article below.
The advantages of having auto insurance far outweigh the disadvantages when you think about the potential loss of property due to an accident.
Here are some of the advantages of having car insurance:
It reduces the number of lawsuits– By carrying insurance, you protected from accidents, regardless of whether they are considered your fault
It gives you peace of mind– If you do not have insurance, you would have to use your own money to get your car fixed after an accident
It ensures reliable transportation– Many insurance policies offer additional car rental insurance as an option
It’s the Law
Carrying the state minimums on auto insurance is the law.
If you are in an accident and were carrying no liability and personal injury insurance, you could be looking at court fines in addition to civil liabilities if someone is injured or killed.
In some cases, failing to have insurance and then being involved in a serious accident could result in felony charges being brought against you, especially if DUI is involved or any sort of reckless or distracted driving.
Most of this will depend on the extent of injuries. A negligent homicide charge is the most serious and is considered third-degree murder.
You are required to have proof of insurance in your car at all times.
If you are stopped by a police officer during a routine traffic check without being able to provide insurance coverage papers, you could be fined anywhere from $400 to $1000.
When you are shopping for car insurance, there are some important aspects that you should look for to ensure that you get what you need.
Many auto insurance carriers have all of these, but some have none or only some of them, so you should consider carefully before purchasing:
Uninsured Motorist Coverage– This type of coverage is designed to cover anything the driver does not carry with his insurance if they are ruled at fault in an accident
Underinsured Motorist Coverage– Underinsured motorist coverage is intended to cover damages or injuries that you receive from a motorist who does not have adequate coverage
Accidental death rider–Some insurance providers allow for an extra accidental death benefit in the event of an accident in which you or others in your car are killed
Medical Expenses Coverage– This type of coverage covers any medical expenses and loss incurred due to the accident in which you are involved
Motorcycle coverage– If you ride a motorcycle, it would be wise to purchase motorcycle coverage as well. Remember that auto insurance itself does not cover motorcycle accidents
Car rental– Car rental insurance covers the cost of car rentals that you use while your vehicle is being repaired
Whether or not you select these extra options and riders is totally up to you.
You will just have to consider whether your risk is significant enough to justify the cost you would spend on monthly premiums when you choose any or all of these options.
The Ultimate Question
When shopping for car insurance, the ultimate question you need to be able to answer is how much coverage you actually need.
Start with the state minimum requirement for auto insurance, and then consider whether adding more coverage to your policy would be a good choice.
You always have to balance this with how much insurance you can actually afford. If you take on more insurance premiums than you can afford, you may end up dropping all of it.
Stick to the highest amount of coverage you can comfortably afford and compare rates among similar carriers.
Be sure to ask plenty of questions on anything you do not fully understand.
The law requires all drivers to cover their automobile with, at least, minimum coverage
If you are involved in an accident with a driver that does not have insurance coverage, you are able to sue them in civil court
Full coverage insurance will protect you in the event you are in an accident with an uninsured driver
Imagine you are driving down the highway on your way to a family reunion when out of nowhere a car swerves into your lane and sends both vehicles flying across the asphalt and into a neighboring field.
Luckily, no one is severely injured, but when you ask the other driver who their insurance carrier is, they reply, “I don’t have insurance!”
At this point, your stomach drops and you feel like you are going to have a heart attack as you picture the thousands of dollars in costly repair bills you are likely to end up paying for yourself!
What do you do if this nightmare of a production casts you as the lead role? Read our guide to help figure out how to pick up the pieces after having had to deal with one of these unscrupulous drivers.
By law, all drivers are required to carry adequate insurance coverage.
According to an article published on AutoInsurance.org, all drivers are required to carry the state minimum amount of insurance before accessing public roads, streets, and highways.
In a perfect world, one need not worry whether the person driving the broken-down, “hoopty” car in the lane adjacent to them has been paying their insurance bill.
However, we do not live in this Utopian fantasy world and are required to contend with this reality nearly every time we get behind the wheel.
According to statistical data, nearly 15 percent of all American drivers in 2014 did not have insurance coverage on their vehicle.
Even more astonishing, in some states like Oklahoma and Florida, almost one in four motorists are not covered by an auto insurance policy.
A quarter of the drivers you see on the road every day are without insurance, which could create represent a massive economic punch to the gut if you wind up in an accident with them.
Penalty for Not Carrying Insurance
State
First Offense
Second Offense
Alabama
Fine: Up to $500; registration suspension with $200 reinstatement fee
Fine: Up to $1,000 and/or six-month license suspension; $400 reinstatement fee with four-month registration suspension
Alaska
License suspension for 90 days
License suspension for one year
Arizona
Fine: $500 (or more); license/registration/license plate suspension for three months
Fine: $750 (or more within 36 months); license/registration/license plate suspension for six months
Arkansas
Fine: $50 to $250; suspended registration/no plates until proof of coverage plus $20 reinstatement fee; court may order impoundment
Fine: $250 to $500 fine — minimum fine mandatory; suspended registration/no plates until proof of coverage plus $20 reinstatement fee. Court may order impoundment
California
Fine: $100-$200 plus penalty assessments. Court may order impoundment
Fine: $200-$500 within three years plus penalty assessments. Court may order impoundment
Colorado
Fine: $500 minimum fine; 4 points against your license; license suspension until you can show proof to the DMV that you are insured. Courts may add up to 40 hours community service
$1,000 minimum fine and license suspension for 4 months; 4 points against your license. Courts may add up to 40 hours community service
Connecticut
Fine: $100-$1000; suspended registration/license for one month (show proof of insurance) with $175 reinstatement fee
Fine: $100-$1000; suspended registration/license for six months (show proof of insurance) with $175 reinstatement fee
Delaware
Fine: $1500 minimum fine; license/privilege suspension for six months
Fine: $3000 minimum fine within three years; license/privilege suspension for six months
Florida
Suspension of license and registration until reinstatement fee is paid and non-cancelable coverage is secured; $150 fee for first reinstatement
Suspension of license and registration until reinstatement fee is paid and non-cancelable coverage is secured; $250 fee for second reinstatement
Georgia
Suspended registration with $25 lapse fee and $60 reinstatement fee. Pay any other registration fees and vehicle ad valorem taxes due
Within a 5 years: Suspended registration with $25 lapse fee and $60 reinstatement fee. Pay any other registration fees and vehicle ad valorem taxes due
Hawaii
Fine: $500 fine or community service granted by judge. Either license suspension for three months or a required nonrefundable insurance policy in force for six months
Fine: $1500 minimum fine within five years; either license suspension for one year or a required non-refundable insurance policy in force for six months
Idaho
Fine: $75; license suspension until financial proof. No reinstatement fee.
Fine: $1000 maximum fine within five years and/or no more than six months in jail; license suspension until financial proof. No reinstatement fee.
Illinois
License plate suspension until $100 reinstatement fee and insurance proof
License plate suspension for four months; $100 reinstatement fee and insurance proof
Indiana
License/registration suspension for 90 days to one year
Within three years: license/registration suspension for one year
Iowa
Fine: $500 if in accident; Otherwise, fine: $250; community service in lieu of fine. Possible citation/warning if pulled over plus removal of plates and registration possible when pulled over without insurance and reissued upon payment of fine or completed community service, proof of insurance, and $15 fee; possible impoundment when pulled over
N/A
Kansas
Fine: $300 to $1000 and/or confinement in jail up to six months; license/registration suspension; reinstatement fee: $100
Fine: $800 to $2500 within three years; license/registration suspension; reinstatement fee: $300 if revoked within previous year, otherwise $100
Kentucky
Fine: $500 to $1000 fine and/or sentenced up to 90 days in jail; license plates and registration revoked for one year or until proof of insurance is shown
Within five years: 180 days in jail and/or $1000 to $2500; license plates and registration revoked for one year or until proof of insurance is shown
Louisiana
Fine: $500 to $1000; If in car accident, fine plus registration revoked and driving privileges suspended for 180 days
N/A
Maine
Fine: $100 to $500; suspension of license and registration until proof of insurance
N/A
Maryland
Lose license plates and vehicle registration privileges; pay uninsured motorist penalty fees for each lapse of insurance — $150 for the first 30 days, $7 for each day thereafter; Pay a restoration fee of up to $25 for a vehicle's registration
N/A
Massachusetts
Fine: $500 to $5000 fine and/or imprisonment for one year or less
Within six years: License/driving privileges suspended for one year
Michigan
Fine: $200 to $500 fine and/or imprisonment for one year or less; license suspension for 30 days or until proof of insurance; $25 service fee to Secretary of State
N/A
Minnesota
Fine: $200 to $1000 (or community service) and/or imprisonment for up to 90 days; License and registration revoked for no more than 12 months
N/A
Mississippi
Fine: $1000; driving privileges suspended for one year or until proof of insurance
N/A
Missouri
Four points against driving record; driver may be supervised; suspended until proof of insurance with $20 reinstatement fee
Four points against driving record; driver may be supervised; suspended for 90 days with $200 reinstatement fee
Montana
Fine: $250 to $500 fine and/or imprisonment for no more than 10 days
Fine: $350 and/or imprisonment for no more than 10 days — within 5 years; license and registration revoked until proof of insurance and payment of reinstatement fees within 90 days
Nebraska
License and registration suspension; reinstatement fee of $50 for each; proof of insurance to remain on file for three years
Nevada
Fine: $250 to $1,000 depending on length of lapse; registration suspension — until payment of reinstatement fee and, depending on circumstances, an SR-22 (proof of financial responsiblity) if lapsed more than 90 days; reinstatement fee: $250
Fine: $500 to $1000 depending on length of lapse; registration suspension — until payment of reinstatement fee and, depending on circumstances, SR-22 (proof of financial responsibility) if lapsed more than 90 days; Reinstatement fee: $500
New Hampshire
Not a mandatory insurance state. Proof of insurance may be required as the result of a conviction, crash involvement, or administrative action. If you are required to file proof of insurance and vehicles are registered in your name, you will be required to file an Owner’s SR-22 Certificate of Insurance.
N/A
New Jersey
Fine: $300 to $1000; license suspension for one year; pay surcharges for three years in the amount of $250 per year
Fine: up to $5000; two-year license suspension; 14-day, mandatory jail term, and an additional mandatory 30 days of community service
New Mexico
Fine: up to $300 and/or imprisoned for 90 days; license suspension
N/A
New York
Fine: up to $1500 if involved in accident plus $750 civil penalty; license and registration suspension – revoked for one year; suspension of license if without
insurance for 90 days; suspension lasts as long as registration suspension; Suspension of registration: equal to time without insurance or pays $8/day up to thirty days for which financial security was not in effect, $10/day from the thirty-first to the sixtieth day $12/day from the sixtieth to the ninetieth day and proof of security is provided. Or for the same time as the vehicle was operated without insurance.
N/A
North Carolina
Fine: $50; registration suspension until proof of financial responsibility but 30-day suspension if in car accident or knowingly driving without insurance; $50 restoration fee plus license plate fee
Fine: $100 within three years; registration suspension until proof of financial responsibility but 30-day suspension if in car accident or knowingly driving without insurance; $50 restoration fee plus license plate fee
North Dakota
Fine: up to $1500 and/or 30 days in prison; 14 points against license plus suspension; Proof of insurance must be provided for one year; license with a
notation requiring that person keep proof of liability insurance on file with the department. The fee for this license is $50, and the fee to remove
this notation is $50.
Fine: up to $1500 and/or 30 days in prison; 14 points against license plus suspension; license plates impounded until proof of insurance (provided for one year) plus $20 reinstatement fee; license with a notation requiring that person keep proof of liability insurance on file with the department. The fee for this license is $50 and the fee to remove this notation is $50.
Ohio
License/plates/registration suspension until requirements are met and $100 reinstatement fee is paid; maintain special high-risk coverage on file with the BMV for three to five years; If involved in accident without insurance: all above penalties and a security suspension for two plus years and an indefinite judgment suspension (until all damages are satisfied)
License/plates/registration suspension for one year; $300 reinstatement fee; maintain special high-risk coverage on file with the BMV for three or five years; if involved in accident without insurance: all above penalties and a security suspension for two plus years and an indefinite judgment suspension (until all damages are satisfied)
Oklahoma
Fine: $250; jail time up to 30 days; license suspension with $275 reinstatement fee. Police can seize license plates and assign temporary plates and liability insurance — in effect for 10 days and can also impound the vehicle. The cost of the temporary coverage is added to the administrative fee and any fines paid for plates to be returned. If car impounded, owner must also pay towing and storage fees.
N/A
Oregon
Fine: $130-$1000 ($260 is the presumptive fine); If involved in accident — at least a one year license suspension; proof of financial responsibility required for three years
N/A
Pennsylvania
Registration suspended for three months (unless lapse was for less than 31 days and vehicle not operated during that time); $88 restoration fee plus proof of insurance required to get it back; $500 civil penalty fee is optional in lieu of registration suspension plus $88 restoration fee — can only use this option once within a 12-month period
N/A
Rhode Island
Fine: $100 to $500; license and registration suspension up to three months; reinstatement fee: $30 to $50
Fine: $500; license and registration suspension up to six months; reinstatement fee: $30 to $50
South Carolina
Fine: $100-$200 or 30-day imprisonment; failure to surrender registration and plates when insurance lapses; license/registration suspended until proof of insurance plus $200 reinstatement fee
Fine: $200 and/or 30-day imprisonment — within 10 years; license/registration suspended until proof of insurance plus $200 reinstatement fee
South Dakota
Fine: $100 and/or 30 days imprisonment; license suspension for 30 days to one year; filing proof of insurance (SR-22) with the state for three years from date of conviction. Failure to file proof will result in suspension of vehicle registration, license plates, and driver license.
N/A
Tennessee
Pay $25 coverage failure fee within 30 days of notice; if not paid, then an additional $100 coverage failure fee with suspension or revocation of registration plus reinstatement fee of no more than $25
N/A
Texas
Fine: $175 to $350 fine; plus, pay up to a $250 surcharge every year for three years (may be reduced with certain requirements)
Fine: $350 to $1000; pay up to a $250 surcharge every year for three years (may be reduced with certain requirements); suspend the driver's license and vehicle registrations of the person unless the person files and maintains evidence of financial responsibility with the department until the second anniversary of the date of the subsequent conviction; Impoundment: for 180 days and
cannot apply for release of car without evidence of financial responsibility and impoundment fee of $15/day.
Utah
Fine: $400; license suspension until proof of insurance (maintained for three years) and $100 reinstatement fee
Fine: $1000 — with three years; license suspension until proof of insurance (maintained for three years) and $100 reinstatement fee
Vermont
Fine: up to $500; license suspended until proof of insurance
N/A
Virginia
Fine: may pay $500 Uninsured Motorists Vehicle fee to drive without insurance at your own risk. If this fee is not paid in lieu of insurance, all driving and vehicle registration privileges will be suspended until a $500 statutory fee is paid, proof of insurance is filed for three years, and a reinstatement fee (if applicable) is paid
N/A
Washington
Fine: Up to $250 or more
N/A
West Virginia
Fine: $200 to $5000; license suspended for 30 days with reinstatement fees, unless there's proof of insurance and $200 penalty fee
Fine: $200-$5000 fine and/or 15 days to one year in jail — within five years; license suspended for 90 days and registration revoked until proof of insurance
Wisconsin
Fine: up to $500
N/A
Wyoming
Fine: up to $750 fine and up to six months in jail
The penalty for driving without insurance varies by state. Knowing that so many motorists either cannot afford or simply choose not to pay for insurance is an extremely daunting fact.
State law prohibits drivers from using any motor vehicle on public roads and highways without being properly covered by an insurance policy, but because the punishments for being caught driving without insurance are so minor.
Many drivers will continue operating their vehicle uninsured in order to save money. It is actually cheaper to not pay for insurance and be fined repeatedly than it is to just pay for it!
Some states, such as Pennsylvania and Alabama are making attempts to curtail these infractions by making driving without a license, driving on a suspended license, and driving while uninsured criminal offenses that can result in jail time for the violator.
How do I report someone that does not have auto insurance?
Whether you were involved in an accident or are simply doing your civic duty to report someone you know is driving without being properly insured, there are several options available to you.
You are able to report the driver to your local police, but that may not change anything.
The police, typically, have more urgent issues to deal with and unless there is an immediate threat to the safety of the public because of this driver, they may not be able to do anything at all.
A better idea would be to contact the Department of Motor Vehicles in the state that issued the license plate of the vehicle in question.
The DMV representative will be able to provide you with additional information to report the issue. They may even have access to a dynamic database that can check on the status of the driver’s insurance coverage.
These are normally updated every few hours, so the information is generally valid. If the DMV determines the driver is not presently insured, they may implement a procedure to suspend or even revoke the driving privileges
Who picks up the tab when involved in an accident with an uninsured driver?
Now, let’s move on to why you are really here; namely who is going to pay for the damages an uninsured driver has done to your vehicle and property?
Unfortunately for many drivers that have been involved in an accident with an uninsured driver, they often end up having to pay for the damages out of their own pocket.
One method available to attempt and gain back some of the money that was lost due to the negligence of these careless individuals is filing a tort claim in civil court.
Although this can be a lengthy process and unfortunately, if the judge finds in your favor, there is still a good chance that you are never going to get your money back or will be required to wait a lengthy period toin order to recoup your losses.
The court can force access to the assets of the guilty party and may even garnish their wages to help get the money to pay you back.
However, if the person has no assets and does not have a job, you are going to be waiting a long time before receiving money. It might better not sue an insolvent driver.
Full Coverage Protects You
Your best bet is to just pay for full coverage insurance due to the massive number of uninsured drivers on the road today. If you feel it is too expensive, just imagine how much more it will cost if caught up in an accident with an uninsured motorist?
By utilizing the internet to compare and contrast various insurance providers, you should be able to find a full-coverage policy that is within your monthly budget. It is well worth spending those extra dollars in order to be protected.
Some policies have provisions that state that a replacement vehicle (after a trade in) will receive the same level of protection as the vehicle it’s replacing for the remainder of the term
If you don’t add a new vehicle to your policy before the automatic coverage period elapses, you won’t have coverage until you contact your insurer
Vehicle owners who move to a new state will be given until they get their new plates to transfer their insurance
When you buy a new car or you’re moving to a new state, it’s all about timing.
You may be busy comparing interest rates or searching for a new home, but getting sufficient auto insurance should be a priority on your to-do list.
If you don’t get your auto insurance in a timely manner, you could be forced to pay for damage and injury claims without help.
If you’re wondering how many days you have to get insurance, the answer depends on the scenario.
You have a lot more time to get insurance on a new vehicle purchase when you have an existing policy. Here’s your guide so that you can plan accordingly.
Since the contract itself is governed by the law of contracts, insurance companies must be very specific as to who, what, and how drivers and vehicles are covered.
Unfortunately, the legalese can be difficult for the average person to understand. All of the lengthy definitions help to ensure that you don’t misinterpret how you’re protected.
Personal Car Insurance Policies Have an Automatic Coverage Provision
Your contract will explain just how long you have to insure a new vehicle once the term starts.
If you have existing insurance and you’re planning on buying a new car, it’s helpful to find out how long your vehicle will automatically be protected.
Luckily, provisions built into the policy make it easy to cover a new purchase.
Newly acquired vehicles are defined as personal vehicles that you take ownership of after the policy takes effect.
Be sure that you are a named insured on the policy and a registered vehicle owner before you assume that you have automatic coverage.
Are there special provisions when you trade your car in?
A new car has coverage for a limited amount of time.
A vehicle that is permanently replacing the covered auto on your policy will have the same level of protection as the old vehicle for the remainder of your term.
If you don’t add the vehicle to your policy, the insurer will still cover claims reported during that term if the policy is active.
When do you buy auto insurance if you don’t have existing insurance?
If you are only a rated driver or you don’t have insurance at all, you need to buy auto insurance immediately after you purchase a car.
You may not need to transfer your insurance the day of your move, but you do need to get it taken care of when you get your new plates.
Most states require you to show you have in-state liability insurance before you will get your new vehicle registration.
If you’re looking to buy a competitive insurance policy, you should take the time to shop around. You can find great rates through all of the state’s best carriers by using an online rate comparison tool.
Without car insurance, an accident could cost you thousands of dollars
Car insurance is required by law
Car insurance can protect you in the case of a liability lawsuit
You may be able to get discounts on car insurance
Paying for car insurance may seem like another bill that you aren’t benefiting from on a month-to-month basis, but in the event that you get into a serious car accident, it can make all the difference.
Each year millions of people are injured in car accidents across the United States. Car insurance companies offer policy protection in exchange for your timely payments of the premium. The kind of protection you pay for varies from policy to policy, but typically the most common types of coverage are:
The kind of protection you pay for varies from policy to policy, but typically the most common types of coverage are:
Liability Coverage – the purpose of this insurance is to cover injuries or damage to other people or property when you are found at fault for an accident
Collision Coverage – pays for damage to your vehicle in an accident. In the event your vehicle is totaled, it would pay the market value that your vehicle is worth
Comprehensive Coverage – pays for damage not caused by an auto accident. Common instances where this coverage would apply include fire, theft, and vandalism
This is not an all-inclusive list of coverage as there are many optional insurances to choose from such as uninsured motorist coverage, underinsured motorist coverage, and medical expense coverage, among others.
One thing you should note is that the federal government does not mandate insurance. The laws are set at the state level, meaning each state has their own coverage requirements.
To find out what your state’s minimum requirements are, check with your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles website.
What do you get from car insurance?
Having car insurance is more than just a convenience, especially if you consider that an accident causing a severe injury could cost $70,500 on average. When you look at the numbers like that, car insurance is a necessity.
Your liability coverage can also help protect you if someone decides to sue you if you are at fault in an accident. Those amounts alone could be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.
This is why it is important to ensure that you have the proper amount of insurance coverage.
How to Get the Best Deal on Car Insurance
Insurance companies offer a variety of policies with different coverage options and amounts. You don’t always need the most expensive policy in order to be adequately covered either.
There is such a thing as being over-insured with car insurance, but it is important also not to be underinsured.
Finding the happy medium is where you will get the right amount of coverage for the right amount of money. The most important thing is to evaluate your financial situation and see what coverage works best for you.
Also, don’t forget to shop around and compare quotes. This comparison will allow you to get some of the best deals.
Getting the best price doesn’t always mean that you are getting the best deal. Always be sure to do your research on the company and make sure that they are legitimate, in good standing, and pay out on their customer’s insurance claims.
If you forget to pay your car insurance, your policy can lapse and you can go unprotected, not to mention, you face the possibility of fines and penalties as well as future rate increases.
Most insurance companies offer flexible payment plans, including monthly, quarterly, semi-annual or annual payments.
The key is the more you pay up front, the more you will save in the long run. However, the monthly payment option is convenient if you can’t typically afford a large sum all at once.
There are other ways that you may be able to help save money on car insurance, including:
Establishing yourself as a good driver with a history free of accident claims.
Becoming a member of a professional organization recognized by the insurance company.
Having car insurance is essential. The protection it offers could save you thousands of dollars. Not only is it illegal to drive without insurance, but it can also put you at a huge financial risk.
Having proper coverage means that you can cover medical expenses and other property damage without risking a lawsuit
Your policy should offer proper levels of protection against physical damage to the car, medical expenses and property damage that occurs in an accident
It is a good idea to make sure that your coverage levels are at least 150 percent of your state minimum coverage
Getting good auto insurance is an important part of driving safely. If anything were to happen to you, would you be able to say that you were properly covered by your insurance policy?
Having proper coverage means that you can cover medical expenses and other property damage without risking a lawsuit.
A good auto insurance policy is going to offer you sufficient coverage across the board. Your policy should offer proper levels of protection against physical damage to the car, medical expenses and property damage that occurs in an accident.
It is a good idea to make sure that your coverage levels are at least 150 percent of your state minimum coverage.
Not having the proper coverage means that you could possibly find yourself in court as the victim tries to sue you for all the damages he is entitled.
The combination of paying for damages out of pocket and legal fees could possibly bankrupt you. It is much cheaper to pay a little more for good coverage as opposed to losing everything paying for an accident.
State minimum levels of coverage are typically not adequate to cover the full cost of most accidents. Finding the best auto insurance is a combination of getting above minimum coverage and finding what is most affordable.
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Find A Company That You Can Trust
You should be able to trust your auto insurance provider. There are many companies out there who will offer cheap insurance that will fulfill your legal obligation.
However, will your insurance company be there for you when you get into trouble? An insurance company that drags its feet while you are trying to file a claim is not worth paying for.
A good piece of advice is to find a company that has some sort of ties to your community.
You can also talk to a real person if you have any questions about your policy. Customer service is a major part of having a good insurance policy.
A company that is not there for you when you need them will just create more problems. Staying away from companies that only operate over the Internet would be advisable in most cases.
A driver with a good credit and driving history should be able to find a policy for under 75 dollars a month. However, consider your own unique driving record before you determine whether or not the price of a particular policy makes sense for you.
There are many ways in which you can lower the premium that you pay on your policy.
Consider any discounts that your provider has as well as lowering the cost of your deductible.
Paying your premium in full every 6 months will allow you to get a better price on your insurance policy. The reason that price is so important is that a policy you cannot afford is not going to help you out much.
Buy Only What You Need
The type of car that you drive will determine what kind of insurance you are going to need. Everyone needs to carry liability insurance, but there are many different kinds of optional coverage that you can carry as well.
Comprehensive insurance will cover you in the event that your car is damaged by falling ice or tree limbs. It will also cover you in the event that your property is stolen from your car.
Whether or not you carry these policies depends on how much you are willing to pay in order to fix your car if it is damaged. However, do not buy this extra coverage if you do not need it.
A good policy will provide coverage for only the things you think you would want to protect. Don’t throw away money on something that you are not going to use.
If you aren’t sure about what kind of extra coverage you might need, you should sit down with an insurance agent who can walk you through the process.
Getting the proper auto insurance is going to help keep your safe while offering peace of mind on the road. Most people will never use the policies they have, but it is comforting to know that there is financial protection in place should anything ever happen.
Having proper auto coverage will allow you to be protected against the high cost of an accident. The last thing you need is to add legal bills on top of damages that you owe to the victim of a crash you caused.
Sufficient levels of coverage combined with great customer service will mean that you have a great insurance policy that will take care of you if you are ever in trouble.
The most recent data from the Insurance Research Council (IRC) estimates that approximately a little over 14 percent of the driving population is uninsured
There are six states where you have more than a 1 in 5 chance of finding an uninsured motorist on the road
Driving uninsured is against the law and has serious repercussions if caught
There are six states where you have more than a 1 in 5 chance of finding an uninsured motorist on the road The most recent data from the Insurance Research Council (IRC) estimates that approximately a little over 14 percent of the driving population is uninsured.
The IRC is a purely independent, nonprofit organization committed to providing educational and academic classes, professional certifications, and insightful research work for the property-casualty insurance business.
Moreover, although there was a steady decrease in the number of uninsured motorists for the past 4 years, in 2008 the number spiked up to 14.3 percent. In 2009 the numbers leveled off a bit to 13.8 percent.
What is the cause of the rise in uninsured drivers?
Unfortunately, with the economy tanking the way it has over the last several years, people have cut costs where they think they can get away with it.
Although there are tough laws in many states fining and even imprisoning individuals for driving without auto insurance, people are still willing to take the chance that they will not get caught for this financial digression.
But there seems to be a direct correlation between to the percentage of individuals who carry auto insurance and the financial strength of the U.S. economy.
With the levels of prosperity, the U.S. saw in the mid-2000s, there was a steady drop in uninsured motorist rates. Since 2008, rates seem to be rising in regard to the decline of America’s overall financial picture.
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What’s my state’s uninsured motorist percentage?
According to the IRC, the list below shows the percentage of uninsured motorists in 2009. These numbers are of course estimates but are based upon the ratio of uninsured motorist claim frequency versus bodily injury claim frequency.
Indiana, Washington, Arkansas, Ohio, and Georgia– 16 percent
Washington D.C., Colorado, California, Maryland, Texas, and Wisconsin– 15 percent
Missouri and North Carolina– 14 percent
Nevada, Minnesota, Alaska, and Louisiana– 13 percent
Arizona– 12 percent
Iowa, Montana, Hawaii, New Jersey, New Hampshire, West Virginia, Virginia, Delaware, and South Carolina– 11 percent
Wyoming, Oregon, Kansas, and Connecticut– 10 percent
North Dakota and South Dakota– 9 percent
Utah, Idaho, and Nebraska– 8 percent
Vermont and Pennsylvania– 7 percent
New York– 5 percent
Maine and Massachusetts– 4 percent
There are six states where you have more than a one in five chance of finding an uninsured motorist on the road. There are three states where you have a 1 in 20 chance (or better) in coming across an uninsured motorist.
Moreover, according to these numbers, 21 states, and the District of Columbia, in 2009 had uninsured motorist percentages above the national average.
So, if you drive through the U.S. on a road trip, you’d have a 1 in 7 chance of encountering an uninsured in 42 percent of states, if you get into a car accident.
What do you do to combat this uninsured motorist epidemic?
Unfortunately, the motorists who abide by the auto insurance laws of their state will feel the financial burden of all of these uninsured drivers out on the roads.
While you may look at the prior list regarding uninsured motorists and see that your state is one of those with a lower percentage than the national average, the idea of you not having uninsured or underinsured vehicle insurance is sheer lunacy.
Even in a state like New York, where there is only a 5 percent chance you’ll have an accident with another vehicle whose driver is not insured, why would you take the risk?
Plus, there are numerous bordering states around New York where the drivers from those areas frequent New York regularly for travel or work.
And, if you live in New York, but get into an accident with a person from Connecticut, you now go from having a 1 in 20 chance for this person to uninsured to a 1 in 10 chance.
So, depending on what your financial and budgetary constraints are, you should seriously look into finding out what adequate coverage for underinsured and uninsured motorist insurance is for your area.
While none of us think about ever getting into an accident, there were 5.5 million car accidents in 2009 alone. And if you do the math that would mean nearly 770,000 of those accidents were involved with an uninsured driver.
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