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Driving without car insurance has long been considered a dangerous and illegal act, but it's often difficult to tell whether or not you're breaking the law. Not only that, but the fines for driving uninsured can be substantial.
What is the Law?
In many states, you will be charged with at least a minor traffic violation if you are stopped while driving without insurance. The crime of driving uninsured is defined as "careless and reckless" conduct, which will result in an automatic first-time misdemeanor charge. If you have had no prior convictions for this offense, then your local district attorney may decide to add this offense to your record, making you a felon.
Not only that, but driving uninsured may also result in significant fines and penalties from the state's Department of Motor Vehicles or other agencies. In some states it is even a felony if the amount of damage to your car exceeds $1,000.
Penalties for Driving Uninsured
Most insurance companies will cover your legal fees if you choose to fight the charge, but in some cases you could be found guilty of this crime without even going to court. However, if you do find yourself in court for driving without auto insurance, the penalties can be very serious.
In addition to paying a fine and possibly serving jail time or doing community service, your car could be impounded for up to 30 days by law enforcement and/or government agencies. Also, deferral options that may be offered by the court aren't always as good as they sound.
What is the Law?
In many states, you will be charged with at least a minor traffic violation if you are stopped while driving without insurance. The crime of driving uninsured is defined as "careless and reckless" conduct, which will result in an automatic first-time misdemeanor charge. If you have had no prior convictions for this offense, then your local district attorney may decide to add this offense to your record, making you a felon.
Not only that, but driving uninsured may also result in significant fines and penalties from the state's Department of Motor Vehicles or other agencies. In some states it is even a felony if the amount of damage to your car exceeds $1,000.
Penalties for Driving Uninsured
Most insurance companies will cover your legal fees if you choose to fight the charge, but in some cases you could be found guilty of this crime without even going to court. However, if you do find yourself in court for driving without auto insurance, the penalties can be very serious.
In addition to paying a fine and possibly serving jail time or doing community service, your car could be impounded for up to 30 days by law enforcement and/or government agencies. Also, deferral options that may be offered by the court aren't always as good as they sound.
