Victoria Berezhetska Owning active automobile insurance is an essential requirement for driving legally in Connecticut, and the state has comparatively severe sanctions and fines for illegal driving. For this reason, it is crucial to ensure you fulfill the minimum insurance standards when safeguarding your automobile.
Base Level of Coverage Required in Connecticut
According to state laws, automobile drivers must acquire $50,000 bodily harm coverage for an accident and $25,000 for a person. Drivers are also expected to meet similar requirements regarding uninsured motorist coverage and material losses.
The Consequences of Not Having Active Insurance in Connecticut
Uninsured driving can lead to a $50 fine and charges of $117. However, not owning active coverage in Connecticut or lending your car to another person who does not carry insurance can result in heavy punishments.
One of the severe insurance-specific offenses in Connecticut is a Class C Misdemeanor. Allowing someone to use your car or drive it yourself when it is not insured can lead to significant consequences like a $500 fine and sometimes jail time. As for the person using your car, the penalties may vary from $100 to $1,000.
Auto owners not carrying valid insurance can lose their license for one to six months, depending on the frequency of offenses. If you are pulled over by the police officer and cannot provide proof of active coverage, your auto can also be impounded. You will have to pay all the fees to get your car and license back as an owner.
If you do not own an automobile but have an active registration, you are typically required to carry a policy. A failure to maintain it may cause a registration suspension.
Getting Into an Accident Without Valid Insurance Coverage
Apart from legal ramifications and fines associated with uninsured driving, auto owners should be aware of the potential repercussions of a car accident. The thing is, it can be even more disastrous from a financial standpoint.
An at-fault accident can be costly even without a base coverage level. In 2019, the average bodily harm claim was around $18,417, and the medium material loss claim was $4,525. That is another reason to consider purchasing suitable coverage seriously. Otherwise, you might face hefty fines, repair expenses, and legal proceedings.
Victoria is a Senior Content Writer at American REIA. She helps customers find the right educational material through easily-digestible blog posts and buying guides backing their insurance coverage choice. Victoria covers the latest industry news and various insurance topics, including auto, home, health, and life insurance.
