In Michigan, if you are found to be driving a car without insurance, you will face penalties. Fines, forfeiting your license for up to 30 days, spending time in jail, or any combination of the three awaits you. Are you an uninsured driver? Did you cause an accident? If that is the case, you will be responsible for paying medical bills or vehicle repair charges for you and the other driver.
Driving without car insurance in Michigan will lead to severe penalties. It would look like going to a gunfight with no bullets or trying to outrun the police on a scooter. It’s just not a good idea.
The Michigan Motor Vehicle Code mandates that all car owners must maintain a minimum level of auto insurance. Therefore, it’s important for car owners to understand the aftermath of driving without insurance in Michigan. It doesn’t matter whether you are a resident of Michigan at present or are preparing to relocate there.
In Michigan, the penalty for driving without car insurance includes fines, license suspension, and even jail time. So, if you’re thinking about risking it and driving without insurance, think again.
Car Insurance Laws of Michigan
If you own a car registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), you must adhere to the state’s minimal auto insurance requirements. In addition to the minimum liability coverage, drivers in Michigan must have special types of insurance because the state has a no-fault system.
According to Michigan auto insurance legislation, drivers must have personal injury protection (PIP) and property protection insurance (PPI) to abide by the no-fault regulations.
Additionally, drivers must have 250/500/10 personal liability insurance, which covers:
- $250,000 in physical injury protection for each individual
- $500,000 in coverage for bodily harm per accident
- $10,000 per accident in property damage insurance
What Are the Penalties for Driving Without Car Insurance in Michigan?
The punishments/penalties for driving without car insurance in Michigan depend on the circumstances. If you’re caught driving without car insurance, you will face fines of up to $500, and your driver’s license might be suspended for 30 days. Plus, you’ll be required to pay a $50 reinstatement fee to get your license back.
In Michigan, it’s against the law to drive without auto insurance. In addition, your driving privileges and eligibility to submit a formal insurance claim may be impacted in the event of an accident. Driving without auto insurance is classified as a misdemeanor in Michigan and is punishable by a fine of $200 to $500, up to a year in jail, or both. Additionally, drivers may revoke their licenses for 30 days or until they can show proof of insurance. Drivers will also pay a license reinstatement cost of up to $125.
The penalties are much more severe if you cause an accident while driving without insurance. You can face fines of up to $1,000, your license can be suspended for up to one year, and you can even face up to one year in jail.
It’s not just penalties you have to worry about. Driving without insurance can also add points to your license, leading to further penalties and higher insurance rates. Also, if you receive 12 or more points on your license within two years in Michigan, the license will be suspended.
What should you know?
If you cannot provide proof of insurance, the Michigan Secretary of State has the right to restrict your ability to register a car.
Drivers in Michigan should be aware of the state’s regulations regarding driving without insurance documentation. If you have a valid auto insurance policy but cannot provide proof of coverage when law authorities ask, you will be subject to a minimal fine. Normally, driving without insurance documentation carries a mandated punishment of $25.
Getting into Accidents without Car Insurance in Michigan
In Michigan, getting into an accident without insurance has serious consequences. Driving without insurance is illegal in Michigan, regardless of whether you were at fault for the collision. Drivers must pay out of pocket or submit a claim to their health insurance company.
The Michigan mini-tort bill, which would allow drivers to claim up to $3,000 from the at-fault driver to cover vehicle damage, is inapplicable to those who do not have auto insurance. When you cause an accident without insurance, the repercussions are significantly worse. You will have to pay all legal costs if the other driver sues you.
SR-22 Insurance for Drivers in Michigan
In addition, SR-22 insurance may be required of drivers who are at fault in an accident but have no insurance. SR-22 insurance is a certificate that attests you have the minimum liability coverage required by the state.
The cost of filing an SR-22 is often low. Having an SR-22 on your record does not look good. An SR-22 on your record will increase your auto insurance premium until the certificate is removed.
Bottom Line
If you’re caught driving without insurance, it’s essential to take action to get your license and insurance situation sorted out as soon as possible. You can even take a defensive driving course to get points off your license.
Driving without car insurance in Michigan is never a good idea. This could end up in fines, license suspension, and even jail time. Plus, it can add points to your license, leading to further penalties. So, be wise, and always have car insurance before hitting the road.
Get Affordable Car Insurance Options Through Way.com
Even though the costs are higher than average, it is mandatory for Michigan drivers to get auto insurance. It is best advised to add coverage or raise the current coverage to safeguard your assets better. However, it is always better to compare and find less expensive coverage that fits your budget.
Platforms such as Way.com can come in handy to compare and find the best coverage that suits your needs.
Sara Sam may not look like your typical car and finance expert, but don’t let that fool you. With over four years of experience in the industry, she knows all the ins and outs of cars, car insurance, and refinancing. You can trust Sara to help you navigate the often-confusing world of automobiles and financing.
