In New Jersey, it’s a legal requirement for all drivers to maintain an active auto insurance policy. Failing to carry the required auto insurance not only exposes drivers to financial liabilities in the event of an accident but also subjects them to serious legal ramifications. As such, all drivers must be adequately covered to avoid the potential consequences. If you are facing charges for driving without insurance, it’s in your best interest to contact a determined Bergen County Criminal Defense Attorney who can help protect your rights and driving privileges.
What Are the Car Insurance Requirements in New Jersey?
As is the case in most states, drivers must purchase a standard or basic auto insurance policy that meets the minimum requirements to legally drive in the Garden State. Without this coverage, you can face severe criminal penalties, including steep monetary fines, driver’s license suspension, and even jail time. Drivers must carry the following coverage:
- Bodily injury liability of $25,000 per person per accident
- Bodily injury liability of $50,000 total per accident
- Property damage liability of $25,000 per accident
It’s important to note that drivers must also carry $15,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) and $25.50 in uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. In addition, New Jersey is a no-fault state. If you are involved in an accident, your insurance company will cover the initial costs. However, it doesn’t cover damages to your vehicle unless you have a full coverage policy. You will be responsible for covering all associated costs if you don’t have insurance. Therefore, the state requires every driver to carry the minimum auto insurance requirement.
What Are the Penalties for Driving Without Insurance?
If you fail to present valid proof of active insurance when requested by law enforcement, you will be subject to fines ranging from a minimum of $300 to a maximum of $1,000, plus a $250 surcharge assessment every three years for a total of three years. For the first offense, you will also lose your driver’s license for a year. Depending on the circumstances, community service and vehicle impoundment may be a requirement if you don’t provide proof of insurance within a set period.
You will face harsher consequences if this is your second or subsequent offense. You may be subject to fines of up to $5,000 and a $250 surcharge that must be paid annually for three years. Your license may be suspended for up to two years, and you may be sentenced to serve 14 days of jail time. Depending on the circumstances, you may be assigned up to 30 days of community service. Ultimately, the severity of the consequences will depend on how often you have been caught driving without insurance.
If you were charged with driving without insurance in New Jersey, please don’t hesitate to contact The Law Office of Carl Spector. Our dedicated legal team is prepared to provide quality legal representation during this confusing time. We understand how devastating the consequences of this offense can be.
