No one likes the feeling of getting pulled over, and nothing is worse than also getting a fine for not having car insurance. The penalty for uninsured drivers varies from state to state. Across the United States, the statistics show that 1 in 7 drivers involved in an accident do not have Insurance. Out of those, another 1 in 7 tend to be the “at fault” drivers as well.
According to the California Vehicle Code section 16029, it is considered a violation if you don’t have verification of financial responsibility or insurance coverage. Violating this code in California could result in a fine of up to $500. You may also suffer additional penalties such as having your car impounded and having your driver’s license suspended. The title-holder of the vehicle will have to pay all storage and towing fees if their car does get impounded.
According to the law, it states the first time you get pulled over you will pay a fine of at least $100 and not more than $200 but this does not include extra penalties. If you are convicted a second time driving uninsured within three years of the earlier conviction then you are going to pay an even bigger penalty. You will be charged no less than $200 and not more than $500 but this does not include extra penalties as well. On top of paying numerous fines, there is also a chance the judge may confiscate your driver’s license. The judge may confiscate your license up to a year. The fees for getting back your license are pretty pricey as well. Things may even go as far as having to take your written tests and go through the procedure for when you first got your driver’s license.
The only way to avoid these fees is to always have insurance and make sure your coverage is at the state minimum. It is very easy to call around to different companies and get car Insurance quotes. A car insurance quote and coverage will cost less in the long run, rather than being caught driving uninsured. Although these penalties do seem harsh, it could be even worse if you are involved in an accident without insurance. The fees can sum to outstanding amounts since you will be paying for everything out of your own pocket. The law states that the fee is so high not for the benefit of the state and not to generate profits but rather to deter drivers driving without insurance and reduce the overall number of uninsured motorists.
