It is illegal to drive without insurance Alabama is no exception. Each state has its own penalties when drivers drive without insurance. According to the Insurance Information Institute (iii), 19.5% drivers in Alabama were not insured in 2019, making it the 7th most uninsured state. Alabama drivers who drive without insurance can face heavy fines and even prison time. It is therefore advisable to get the minimum coverage.
Alabama requires minimum insurance
Alabama state law mandates minimum coverage that follows the 25, 50 and 25 rules. Proof of insurance must be carried by drivers at all times.
- $25,000 bodily injury liability per individual
- Maximum $50,000 for bodily injury to be paid in one accident
- Maximum $25,000 per accident for property damage
Although no one wants to be in an accident, it is better to be prepared. You need to be prepared in case of an accident. This means you have the right coverage, or at the very least the minimum coverage. Comprehensive coverage will save you money in the long-term and protect you better in case of an unexpected accident.
Alabama penalizes drivers who drive without insurance
Driving without insurance is a misdemeanor in Alabama. You can be fined anywhere from $500 to $1,000. If caught driving without insurance, your license and vehicle registration may be suspended for up to 180 days. You could also spend three to six months in prison.
You will be required to pay $200 for reinstatement and get a SR-22 certificate from your carrier. This certifies that you have the minimum insurance you need. You will be required to purchase an SR-22. This means that you will have to pay a higher premium. You could face increased jail time and fines for subsequent offenses.
Alabama’s online insurance verification program charges fees
The state created the Online Insurance Verification System to implement the Mandatory Liability Insurance law. This online insurance verification system allows proof of insurance to electronically be logged and retrieved by Alabama drivers and traffic officers.
Alabama drivers will be charged different fees for the verification system.
| Reason for the fee | The fee amount |
|---|---|
| Reinstatement of a suspension-related registration | $200 |
| Uninsured motorist caught in the first offense | Maximum $500 |
| Uninsured motorist convicted of second offense | Maximum $1,000 |
In an accident and not having insurance
You could face financial and civil penalties if you are caught driving with no insurance. You could face more severe consequences if you are not insured and get into an accident. You will most likely be issued a citation, even if you were not at fault. Without insurance, it might be harder to get compensation for the property damage and medical expenses caused by the other driver.
If you are the one responsible for the accident, and you don’t have any insurance, you’ll be responsible for paying all damages, as well as the medical expenses, out of your own pocket. The amount of damages could run into the thousands depending on how severe the accident was, and if the other driver doesn’t have uninsured motorist insurance. You could end up with serious debt if you are unable to pay for the damages.
Questions frequently asked
What happens if you give false information about your insurance?
Driving without insurance in Alabama could result in costly fines, suspension of your license, and even jail time. However, false information about your insurance can lead to more severe consequences. False information can result in a six-month suspension on your registration and a $200 reinstatement fee. You will also be required to have an SR-22 for three year. You could face a $500-$5,000 fine and up to 10 years imprisonment if you are found guilty.
What is the cost of car insurance in Alabama
The average cost for car insurance in America is $565 for minimum coverage, and $1,674 to cover full coverage. Alabama drivers pay close to the national average. The minimum coverage is $469, and full coverage is $1,623.
Which Alabama car insurance company is best?
Every car insurance company is unique. The best insurance company will be based on your financial goals, needs, and financial position. It is important to evaluate your needs, present circumstances, and future goals to determine the best car insurance. To find out what options are available, consult a licensed agent.
Alabama offers car insurance discounts.
Alabama car insurance companies offer discounts that can make car insurance more affordable. Research all available providers to see if you qualify for any discounts when you purchase coverage.