New York has one the lowest rates of uninsured motorists in the country. There is less risk of an uninsured driver causing an accident in New York than other states, with a 4.1% rate. Uninsured drivers can face severe penalties and possible jail time.
Although car insurance in New York may not be cheap, it’s worth it if you take into account the consequences.
New York City minimum insurance requirements
New York state law requires that all drivers have a 25/50/10 policy. The minimum coverage required for each driver is:
- $25,000 per person to cover bodily injury liability
- $50,000 per accident bodily injury liability
- $10,000 per accident in property damage liability
New Yorkers must have $50,000 to cover personal injury protection (PIP), as well as:
- $25,000 per person for underinsured/uninsured motorist bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for underinsured/uninsured motorist bodily injury
New York Penalties for Driving Without Car Insurance
Want to find out the penalties for driving without insurance? There are only a few in the Empire State.
Fines / jail time
You could face a fine if you drive without insurance or allow someone else to drive your car. This could result in a fine of $1500 per incident. It will depend on your past convictions and whether or not you have had any prior driving offences without insurance.
Additional fines up to $500 may be assessed for those who are unable to or unwilling to pay New York’s driving fines.
Car impound
After being arrested or driving without insurance, your car could be impounded. You could be charged both storage and towing fees if your car is impounded. These fees will usually be required before you can get your car back.
Driver’s license and registration revoked
After receiving a ticket for not insuring your vehicle, you will need to pay $750 to reinstate your New York driver’s licence. Additional fees may apply to vehicle registration suspensions. In general, a vehicle registration suspension will last for the same amount of time as if your vehicle was not insured with minimum state requirements and kept its plates.
You may be required to have a valid license and registration for at least one year if your insurance policy has expired.
New York: Don’t let your policy expire
The DMV will notify insurance providers if your policy expires. Your car’s registration may be immediately suspended. It is the responsibility of you, as the driver, to turn in your plates and obtain a new policy within 90-days. The sooner you start a new policy, generally speaking, the better. There are fees involved if you don’t initiate a new policy. These can quickly add up.
It is the best thing for you to quickly get a new policy. There are many ways to reduce your bill if you have difficulty finding affordable policies. Try to do as many of these strategies as you can:
- Get discounts
- Compare providers
- You can drive an older vehicle that has a high safety rating
- Credit score improvement
- Your deductible should be increased to the maximum amount you are able to afford.
In an accident and not having insurance
Driving without insurance in New York can lead to costly accidents. Even though New York is a state with no fault, you still have financial responsibility for any damages or bodily injuries. This is in addition to the other penalties. It is important to have a policy.
Questions frequently asked
What happens if you give false information about your insurance?
False information regarding your insurance can result in license suspension, jail and fines, as well as car impoundment. Driving without insurance can also have serious consequences.
What is the cost of car insurance in New York City?
New York’s average cost for car insurance is $2,321 per annum for full coverage, and $1,062 for minimal coverage. This is significantly higher than the national average. Americans pay an average of $1,674 per year for full coverage, and $565 for minimal coverage.
Which is the best auto insurance company?
Many top-rated car insurance companies are available. To find the best customer service and lowest premium costs, explore your options.
Which insurance policy is best for New Yorkers?
New York has many car insurance options, so it is possible to find the right one for you. You can decide whether you are looking for affordable rates or customer satisfaction. You should be able narrow your choices by using your criteria.
