What Happens If You Are Both Uninsured in California?
California by law requires all drivers to carry auto insurance. Surprisingly it is estimated that up to 20% and even more in some areas of California are not insured. With a tough economy and so many individuals facing financial hardship this number very well could be on the rise. Not carrying car insurance can certainly be a risky move. If you were involved in an accident and did not have CA auto insurance you most likely would be facing a legal nightmare.
If you are found to be in a car accident without California auto insurance you could be facing fines, car impoundment and license suspension. Fines can be up to $500.00 per incident and you would have your license suspended for one year. If you require a license to drive out of necessity you can apply for a specific special license to use during this time period. These include limited driving privileges to go to and from work and any driving you need to do on the job. You can also file for a special license to be able to drive family members to seek emergency medical care and to drive a child to and from school when no other transportation is available. Of course to apply for these special licenses you will have to provide proof of auto insurance coverage.
Besides losing your license and facing fines, if the accident was your fault you are technically liable for damages and liability to those involved in the accident. If the other driver has the means they very well could take you to court to try and collect damages. This is something that you should be prepared for.
You might be wondering what would happen if you were uninsured and in an accident with another uninsured party. If the other driver of the accident also did not have California auto insurance and there were no other parties involved you in a sense just might be lucky. If neither of you reported the accident and the police were not notified there would be no legal repercussions. However, you would still have to pay to have your car repaired or replaced which in the end could cost you more than insurance. You would also have to pay for any medical bills you might incur because of the accident.
If there was another party involved or the police were notified you would find yourself in the same scenario as with an insured party. The police would most likely be notified, your license would be revoked and you would be liable for any damages if the accident was your fault.
As you can see, in most cases, if you drive without CA auto insurance you are putting yourself at great legal and financial risk. Even though times are tough, you will want to do everything you possibly can to remain insured. Shop around for a good rate, and only take the minimum insurance if absolutely necessary. If you are of low income you can also check into the special programs California offers to obtain low cost auto insurance.
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