Penalties for Driving without Insurance in New York

New York is not one of the cheapest car insurance states, and the state also has pretty severe penalties for people who do not meet the minimum requirements for auto insurance in the state. This includes people who have canceled their car insurance policies and still drive, people fail to maintain adequate car insurance on a registered vehicle, and people who choose not to purchase insurance to begin with.

New York is a no-fault state for car insurance, which means that drivers in the state are required to have not only liability insurance coverage but also personal injury protection coverage, as well as uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. This is a higher number of requirements than in many other states, but if you are not holding the state required insurance amounts, you can be ticketed, fined, or otherwise penalized.

Penalties For Driving Without Insurance

There are many penalties that New York can administer for people who are not driving with the proper amount of automobile insurance coverage. The state requires that drivers have proof of insurance on them when operating a motor vehicle in the state, and the state does except the digital insurance cards. Digital insurance cards can be displayed on a cell phone, tablet, or other electronic devices.

Penalties For A First Offense

The first time a person is caught without an insurance policy in New York will result in a ticket, as well as other fees. New York has insurance companies notify the DMV in the state as soon as your policy lapses or is canceled. At that point, your vehicle’s registration will be immediately suspended. This happens regardless of whether your vehicle is put into storage or is not being used. You must turn in your plates and get new insurance within 90 days if your insurance policy lapses. A reinstatement fee will also be applied, based on the number of days your registration was suspended.

Penalties For Second Offenses

Penalties can increase from there the second time a person is caught driving without insurance or lets their insurance lapse while their vehicle is registered. The insurance companies coordinate with the state government, so keep in mind that the authorities will be notified in the event a policy is canceled or lapses.

Penalties For Driving Without Insurance In An Accident

Driving without insurance can result in even more expenses, particularly if you are in an accident. Being liable to cover the high costs associated with having a car accident and not having insurance can cause financial problems that can impact people’s lives forever.