On the Scene

• If you are involved in an accident and the police are called, the officer will request that you show a copy of your insurance or proof of financial responsibility. When you are unable to provide this proof, the officer will cite you for driving uninsured. In some states, your vehicle can be immediately impounded.
  
  

Points

• A citation for driving without insurance at the time of an accident can result in several points on your driver's license. Not only will you receive points for driving without insurance, you can receive additional points for the other violations that resulted from the accident, such as driving too closely, failure to control and reckless driving.
  
  

Suspension

• Not only are you subject to a possible license suspension for too many points, you are also subject to a license suspension for driving without insurance. Every driver in the U.S. is subject to a three- to six-month license suspension for being uninsured. The minimum suspension is dependent upon each state's requirements. Additional suspension time can be added for repeat offenders. Some states will also suspend a vehicle owner's registration during the license suspension. As a result, the vehicle cannot be driven during that period.
  
  

Fines and Fees

• Uninsured drivers can find themselves entrenched in fines and fees after an accident. Not only are you responsible for your traffic citations, you are responsible for license reinstatement fees, registration reinstatement fees and civil penalties for noncompliance. If a court appearance is required, you could also be subject to court costs and other court-related fees.
  
  

Financial Responsibility

• Before your driving privileges are reinstated, states will require you to show proof of financial responsibility. In addition, several states will require you to obtain an SR22, or certificate of financial responsibility, before your privileges can be reinstated. In many cases, the SR22 must be carried for at least three years; however, some states may require additional time.
  
  

The Other Party

• If you are involved in an accident with another party and found to be at fault, you will be responsible for the other party's injuries and damages. Because you are uninsured, the other party and his insurance carrier can litigate against you for the balances due.