What Happens If You Get in Car Accident Without Insurance

In Virginia, you must either purchase auto insurance that meets the state’s minimum coverage requirements or pay a $500 Uninsured Motor Vehicle (UMV) fee. This fee allows you to drive uninsured but doesn’t provide any insurance coverage.

Consequences of Not Having Insurance

If you’re involved in an accident without insurance, and it’s your fault, you’ll be personally liable for any damages. If you didn’t pay the UMV fee, you could also face:
  • $500 Fine: You may be ticketed at the accident scene.
  • Suspension: Loss of your driver’s license, registration, and plates for a period.
  • Court Orders: You might be required to maintain proof of insurance for three years.
To reinstate your registration, you’ll need to pay the fine, purchase insurance, and cover a reinstatement fee.

Impact on Your Accident Claim

If the other driver was at fault, your claim should proceed normally. However, Virginia’s contributory negligence laws mean that if you’re found even 1% at fault, you could be denied compensation. An experienced attorney is crucial to ensure your rights are protected.

Dealing with an Uninsured Driver

If the at-fault driver is uninsured, recovering damages can be difficult. You may need to rely on your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. Without it, suing the uninsured driver might be your only option, which can be challenging if they have limited financial resources.

What to Do Immediately After an Accident

If you’re involved in an accident without insurance, here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do:
  1. Call the Police: Always report the accident, regardless of its severity. A police report can be crucial evidence in your case.
  2. Gather Information: Exchange details with the other driver, including their name, contact information, and insurance details (if they have any). Also, collect contact information from witnesses.
  3. Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries. Also, note the physical appearance of the other driver and any important details.
  4. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
  5. Contact an Attorney: Reach out to a Virginia auto accident attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and get guidance on your next steps.

Why Many Virginia Residents Don’t Have Car Insurance

According to carinsurance.com, about 10% of Virginia residents do not have auto insurance. Several factors contribute to this:
  • Cost: Auto insurance can be expensive, and after the 2008 recession, many people chose to go without it.
  • Time and Frustration: Purchasing insurance can be time-consuming and frustrating, leading some drivers to skip it altogether.
  • Overconfidence: Some drivers mistakenly believe they won’t get into an accident, so they forego insurance.
However, not having insurance can have serious consequences, especially if you’re involved in an accident.

How Does Not Having Insurance Affect Your Accident Claim?

If the accident was not your fault, then as noted above, in theory, the fact that you had no auto insurance should make no difference in how your claim will proceed. In reality, you could face some difficulties as you attempt to recover damages for your injuries and damages to your vehicle, particularly if the other driver also had no insurance. If the other driver did have insurance, then his or her insurance company may be doing all they can to deny your claim by placing some of the blame for the accident on you. Your Virginia auto insurance attorney will work hard on your behalf to place the blame for the accident where it belongs—on the at-fault driver—and to ensure you receive an equitable settlement that will allow you to pay your medical expenses and have your automobile repaired. If you had no car insurance and had not paid the uninsured driver fee, then you could potentially lose your license, registration, and license plates for up to a year.

How an Attorney Can Help You

Having no auto insurance at the time of an accident can lead to serious consequences, particularly if you have not paid the UMV fee. The highly experienced auto accident attorneys at Tronfeld West & Durrett can help guide you through this challenging situation. We will:
  • Investigate the Accident: Gather evidence to build a strong case that places the blame where it belongs—on the at-fault driver.
  • Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Handle all communications and negotiations with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
  • Represent You in Court: If necessary, we will represent you in court to fight for your rights.

Contact Tronfeld West & Durrett for a Free Consultation

At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we understand how stressful it can be to navigate the aftermath of an auto accident without insurance. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you understand your options and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you map out a plan of action.