What Happens if You Drive Without Insurance?
When it comes to driving without insurance, it’s usually one of three things involved. First, it could be that your funds are low and you can’t afford it. However, it could also be that you’ve made a mistake or are a big procrastinator. Maybe you’ve been so busy lately that you haven’t been making your car insurance payments. As a result, your insurance company cancels the policy, unbeknownst to you. There’s also a chance that you figure you don’t need insurance because you have a great driving record.
One day, when there is much sun glare, you drive through a red light that you thought was yellow and T-bone another car. There are injuries and damage to both cars. Meanwhile, when the police come to the scene, and you’re issued a couple of citations. One of them is for not having insurance.
Penalties for Driving Without Insurance
Under New Jersey law, N.J.S.A. 39:6B-1 requires all New Jersey motorists to have liability insurance. This protects drivers, passengers, and pedestrians in the event of an accident.
Driving without insurance is a serious offense in New Jersey. Under N.J.S.A. 39:6B-2, it carries harsh penalties. A first-time violation includes a fine of no less than $300 and not more than $1,000 plus community service. A second offense includes a fine no less than $500, plus $30 in court costs; a 14-day jail sentence; 180 hours of community service; and a suspended license for two years, with the chance it will be revoked. There are also surcharges for three years in the amount of $250 per year. Additionally, nine points will go on your driving record, which could make things problematic later on when you try to get back your insurance.
The good news is that while you were fined for driving without insurance, it does not mean that you are guilty. An attorney experienced with handling traffic tickets in New Jersey will work with you on a defense. For example, is there a chance that your insurance policy was canceled without your knowledge or due to the failure of your agent to forward payment? Did you actually have a policy in place, but just couldn’t find your insurance card?
Contact us
Driving without automobile insurance can be very serious. At the Law Offices of Beninato & Matrafaljo,we have decades of experience handling traffic tickets of all kinds. Contact us to schedule an appointment to see how we can help you.