Driving Without Proof of Insurance in Fulton County
In Georgia, it is mandatory for all drivers to possess a minimum level of auto insurance coverage for their vehicles. Failure to meet this requirement may lead to charges of driving without proof of insurance. Georgia law encompasses two distinct statutes related to driving uninsured, and our team of Georgia No Proof of Insurance Lawyers is ready to provide assistance. Call now for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.
Driving Without Insurance
Under O.C.G.A. 40-6-10, it is unlawful to operate a motor vehicle without sufficient insurance coverage. Ownership of the vehicle is immaterial; what matters is that the vehicle must, at the very least, be covered by the state-mandated insurance. Violating O.C.G.A. §40-6-10 results in a misdemeanor charge, carrying potential penalties of up to 12 months in jail, a fine ranging from $200 to $1,000, or a combination of both. Falsely claiming insurance coverage, such as informing an officer of insurance knowledge while being aware of its absence, is also treated as a misdemeanor.
Even if a driver has valid insurance, lacking proof of insurance can lead to charges. However, the consequences for this offense are less severe, typically involving a $25 fine.
Insurance Lapses in Georgia
A lesser-known penalty is that insurance companies report lapses to the State of Georgia, which can result in the suspension of a driver's license. While insurers usually allow a 30-day grace period, failure to reinstate insurance within this timeframe necessitates paying a $25 lapse fee and a $60 reinstatement fee.
Preventing a No Proof of Insurance Charge in Georgia
To avoid legal issues, adhere to these best practices:
- Keep insurance information up to date, ensuring timely payments and no lapses in coverage.
- Add new vehicles promptly to your insurance policy.
- Store insurance documents in your vehicle for easy access during police stops.
- Maintain politeness during encounters with officers; if unable to produce a physical insurance card, respectful behavior might lead to a warning rather than a ticket.
Contact Us Today
Every case is different, and no matter if this is your first interaction with the law or your fifth, you should have your rights protected! The Fulton County DUI Lawyers with The Law Office of Richard Lawson understand there are often extenuating circumstances. Our attorneys are experts in criminal defense and will investigate every aspect of your case to make sure you receive the best outcome possible. Call now for a free case evaluation.