The consequences of being caught driving without insurance can be steep depending upon each situation. Most states have penalty fees for uninsured drivers. A driver caught without insurance may have his or her license and registration suspended. Additionally, the vehicle may be impounded. Uninsured drivers involved in car accidents may face more severe consequences.
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Penalty Fees
Many states set penalty fees for motorists found driving without vehicle insurance. If a driver is caught more than once, larger fines may apply. The state's Department of Motor Vehicles and local law-enforcement officers can provide more information on specific penalties. In South Carolina, uninsured drivers must pay $5 per day of uninsured status; there is an additional reinstatement fee. In Oklahoma, uninsured drivers are charged a fine up to $250.
Impounded Vehicle
Sometimes, driving without insurance may cause the vehicle to be impounded. This can be an expensive penalty for the guilty motorist. The driver must pay towing fees and possible storage fees to retrieve the vehicle from the impoundment lot. Usually, the vehicle owner must obtain proof of insurance before he may receive the vehicle from impoundment.
Suspended Driver's License and Registration
Motorists caught driving without vehicle insurance may have their driver's license and vehicle registration suspended. South Carolina will suspend a driver's license and vehicle registration if no liability insurance existed at the time of an accident causing property damage, injury or death. Indiana will suspend an uninsured motorist's license for 90 days. Repeat violators may have their license suspended for up to a year. In Pennsylvania and Maryland, a driver needn't be cited to have his or her license suspended; simply allowing vehicle insurance to lapse can be enough.
Accidents in Uninsured Vehicles
Vehicles involved in accidents often have more severe penalties for driving without insurance. Additionally, an uninsured motorist involved in an accident may be liable for damage costs. The amount paid will depend upon how much physical damage is done and who is particularly at fault. If it's the uninsured driver's fault, the risk is more severe than if he or she had vehicle insurance.
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