Each state in the US mandates that car drivers must have minimum auto liability insurance. The minimum coverage required in each state is different so it’s important to make sure your insurance covers the minimum amount. Driving without insurance can result in a much higher fine than driving with no insurance. If you are caught driving without car insurance, you could face a heavy fine and even your license being suspended. You will also need to show proof to renew or license your car.
These two groups illustrate how the minimum level coverage varies across states. Here we examine Nevada, Vermont, and New York States. The state of Nevada has a lower minimum level of coverage.
Nevada Minimum liability requirements
$15,000 per person for any injury or death. $30,000 for injuries and deaths of two or more people
$10,000 per accident for property damage
Vermont/New York Minimum Insurance Requirements
$25,000 per person for injury or death
$50,000 for injuries and deaths of two or more persons
$10,000 per accident for property damage
The harsh sentences that can be imposed for driving in the USA without insurance should not be ignored. Below are statistics for Arizona. Arizona: Driver’s license suspension or vehicle registration. This can lead to reinstatement fees. You may also require an SR-22 for three-years.
California: Driver’s license suspended or fined up to $500. Drivers could be financially responsible if the vehicle is impounded. The driver may be sentenced by a judge.
Delaware: A fine of $100 to $1,500 can be assessed for a first offense in insurance. Driver’s license or vehicle registration can be suspended.
Florida: Driving privileges could be suspended for up to three years if caught driving without insurance. Reinstatement fees range from $150-$500 for vehicle registration.
Illinois: The driver will be fined $500 and have their vehicle registration and license suspended.
Maryland: Offender will be fined $150 for the first 30 day of not having auto insurance. Then $7 per day thereafter until they have sufficient insurance. False auto insurance can result in a $1,000 penalty and possible jail time.
Mississippi: The first offense of driving without insurance results in a $1,000 penalty and suspension of your driver’s license for one-year.
Nevada: Nevada’s minimum car insurance requirement will cause a driver to lose their Nevada vehicle registration immediately. The vehicle’s license plate can be removed by law enforcement officers. A $250 reinstatement fee must also be paid in order to have it returned.
Texas: For driving without insurance, the first offense carries a $175-$350 fine and additional penalties up to $1,000. The suspension of the driver’s license and impoundment of the vehicle will result in the driver’s license being suspended.
Washington: Driving without minimum insurance will result in a minimum $450 fine
Different Types of Car Insurance
You can choose between full and limited coverage when it comes to car insurance. You can’t buy auto insurance if you purchased your vehicle with a loan. This is a requirement of the bank that they have to provide some assurance about your investment or the vehicle you purchased with their money. Sometimes, even a complete insurance policy leaves you with a small amount to cover any claim. Most insurance companies offer limited coverage auto insurance, provided there are no vehicle loans. This policy does not cover your vehicle for repairs if you are involved in an accident. In states like Nevada, the minimum coverage required by law is limited insurance.
A limited policy might be the best option if your vehicle isn’t worth much. You should consider full coverage insurance policies if your vehicle is valuable. It is a good idea to compare auto insurance quotes that provide minimum liability coverage. Then, you should decide how much you can afford to add more. Otherwise, you could be left with a large bill if your vehicle is involved in an accident or is destroyed. This is particularly important if you are found to be at fault or the other driver is driving illegally. Without insurance.
- Medical Payments – This coverage pays for your medical expenses in case of an accident
- Comprehensive coverage – This level of insurance covers your losses from theft, fire, and storms, as well as the cost of repairing or replacing you vehicle.
- Bodily Injury – This policy option covers injury to others if you are found at fault for an accident
- Personal Injury Protection – This coverage is available in all no-fault countries and covers a wide variety of medical expenses
- Uninsured/Under-insured Motorist – this provides cover for you if another driver you are involved in an accident with is not insured or is under-insured
- Collision coverage – Covers the repair costs of damage to your vehicle
- The Deductible is an amount that you agree to pay in case of loss. It’s similar to an excess charge you are responsible for.
- Property Damage – Covers property damage caused by an accident
- Towing and emergency roadside assistance are available if your vehicle becomes un-drivable or breaks down after an accident
- Windshield repair service
