Texas Car Insurance

4 Ways Driving Uninsured Can Get You in Trouble in Texas

Driving without insurance can land you in a lot of trouble in any state, including Texas. The very real dangers of uninsured driving include losing your license, potential job loss, an increase in insurance premiums and penalties. Here are four ways you can get in trouble by driving without insurance in the state of Texas.

  1. Misdemeanor Offense: Driving without insurance is a misdemeanor offense in Texas. Of course, this is less serious than a felony like felony DWI, although it does still carry legal penalties. Violating the financial responsibility law in Texas typically results in a fine for the first offense that varies between $175 and $350. Subsequent offenses result in fines that range from $350 to $1,000, along with the suspension of your license and registration and impoundment of your vehicle.
  2. SR-22 Insurance and Accident Liability: If you happen to get into an accident without insurance, the penalties are even stricter. You generally have to carry a SR-22 policy for a period of time. A Texas SR-22 policy is a certificate of insurance that is required by law to show the DPS proof of insurance in the future. This liability policy certifies that an individual is insured and is required for reinstatement if your license has been suspended or revoked. After an accident you are also required to pay back anyone you harmed as well as their insurance company. It is at this point your license will be suspended if you are unable to pay back the money or come to some agreement. Your license may even be suspended indefinitely.
  3. Impoundment: In Texas, a law enforcement officer may have your vehicle impounded if you are cited for driving without insurance. This is because you are driving without required insurance and your vehicle is not allowed on the road, even if you have a license. If your vehicle is impounded you will need to show proof of insurance and pay towing fees, storage fees and more to get your vehicle back.
  4. Suspended License: All vehicles must be properly insured to be on the roadway. If you are caught driving without insurance, you face fees and penalties first, as well as possible impoundment. However, after a second or subsequent ticket for driving without proper insurance, your license may be suspended. This suspension typically lasts for a certain period of time and you will require SR-22 insurance afterward. There are many consequences of a suspended license and driving without a license will land you in even more trouble.