A Risk Not Worth Taking: Find out What Happens If You're Caught Driving With No Insurance

Driving gives people a great deal of freedom. It allows them to get to and from work, school, doctor's appointments, supermarkets, and various other places without having to constantly ask someone for a ride or spend extra money on taxis, rideshares, and public transportation. Being able to jump into a car and take off at will also gives people a way to escape from the stress and chaos of everyday life whenever they need to get away. For some, the interior of a vehicle is the only place where they can be alone and enjoy a few moments of peace and quiet.

Driving by the Numbers

People seem to realize the many benefits of having a vehicle and being able to drive it legally. According to a recent report, the number of registered vehicles in the United States surpassed 287 million last year. This figure has been growing steadily for the past decade, and researchers expect it to continue along those lines during the years to come. The number of licensed drivers across the nation is surging as well with the latest count hovering around 228 million.

Being Ready for the Road

To remain in compliance with the law, all drivers must have some type of vehicle insurance. In fact, you must show proof of insurance in order to obtain or renew a tag for a vehicle. You can't even get a driver's license without showing proof of insurance. In the event you want to get a driver's license but don't own a car, you have to at least provide proof of insurance for a vehicle you may drive at some point. If you're caught driving without insurance, severe penalties will most likely ensue.

Hefty Fines

Every state, with the exception of New Hampshire, hands out tickets for driving without insurance coverage, and significant fines tend to accompany those tickets. These vary by state and range from $25 to $5,000. In Colorado, the standard fine for having a non-insured vehicle on the road is $500. Depending on the age, make, and model of your vehicle and your driving history, the cost of a year's worth of coverage could be less expensive than a single fine.

License Suspension

When a licensed driver's auto insurance lapses, the proper authorities are notified almost immediately. From there, his or her driver's license is suspended, meaning it's completely invalid and the affected driver is no longer legally allowed to drive a vehicle. If caught driving with a suspended license, you could go to jail. Suspensions can last for a specified amount of time or until the driver pays the necessary suspension and reinstatement fees. In Colorado, the reinstatement fee is $95 plus any additional costs you may be required to pay. On top of that, you have to pay to have your insurance reinstated before you'll be allowed to get your driving privileges back.

These are only a few of the potential consequences of driving without insurance. Uninsured vehicles are often impounded as well. Getting a vehicle back from the impound lot brings about even more expenses. You may need more information on the types of coverage available to determine which one best suits your needs and budget. Still, it's an essential element for anyone who climbs behind the wheel of a vehicle.

Additional Considerations

Keep in mind, you won't necessarily be notified if your license is suspended due to a lack of insurance coverage. You could be pulled over for something like speeding or a broken taillight and end up being arrested for driving without a license simply because your insurance lapsed. It's also important to remember some states closely monitor drivers for insurance coverage. Colorado happens to be one of them. If your insurance lapses, you could be ticketed and fined as well as having your license suspended even if you're not caught in the act of driving without coverage.