Gwinnett County No Proof of Insurance
No Proof of Insurance Defense Lawyer
Serving Gwinnett County, Georgia
When you are pulled over for a traffic violation in Georgia, the police officer will ask for your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of auto insurance. If you cannot provide proof of insurance, the consequences can be far more severe than just a warning or ticket.
In Georgia, driving without insurance is a serious offense that can lead to criminal charges, hefty fines, and even the suspension of your driver’s license.
Understanding the implications of this violation and why it is crucial to have proper insurance coverage is essential for every driver. This article delves into Georgia’s insurance requirements, the penalties for failing to provide proof of insurance, and why consulting an experienced traffic violation attorney in Gwinnett County is vital if you are facing this charge.
Table of Contents
What are the insurance requirements for drivers in Georgia?
In Georgia, every driver is legally required to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. This insurance must cover at least $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury to two or more people, and $25,000 per accident for property damage.
These minimum coverage amounts are designed to ensure that drivers can cover the costs of injuries and property damage in the event of an accident. Additionally, Georgia law mandates that you always carry an insurance card in your vehicle to provide proof of coverage if requested by law enforcement.
Failure to meet these requirements can result in severe penalties, including fines and license suspension.
What are the penalties for no proof of insurance in Georgia?
In Georgia, driving without proof of insurance can lead to serious penalties. Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-10, if you are caught driving without valid insurance, you face misdemeanor charges with fines ranging from $200 to $1,000, potential imprisonment for up to 12 months, and a license suspension of 60 to 90 days.
If you have insurance but fail to provide proof, the penalty is typically a maximum fine of $25. However, bringing proof of valid insurance to court can often result in the charge being reduced or dismissed, avoiding any report to the Department of Driver Services or your insurance company.
Two different Insurance Related Offenses:
O.C.G.A. § 40-6-10
Under Georgia law, O.C.G.A. § 40-6-10 outlines two distinct offenses related to vehicle insurance: Driving Without Valid Insurance and No Proof of Insurance.
Driving Without Valid Insurance
If you are caught driving a vehicle without valid insurance, whether you are the owner or simply operating the vehicle, you will face serious consequences. This offense is a misdemeanor that can result in up to 12 months of imprisonment, fines up to $1,000, and a suspension of your driving privileges for at least 60 to 90 days. Given the severity of these penalties, it is highly recommended to seek the assistance of a qualified Georgia traffic attorney, especially if this charge is connected to a DUI offense.
No Proof of Insurance
If you have valid insurance but fail to provide proof when stopped by a police officer, you will be charged with “No Proof of Insurance.” This offense carries a much lighter penalty—a fine not exceeding $25. If you can provide proof of insurance in court, many judges will either reduce the fine or dismiss the charge altogether. Importantly, if the charge is reduced, it will not be reported to the Department of Driver Services or your insurance company, meaning it will not impact your driving record or insurance rates.
What are possible defenses to no insurance charges in Georgia?
If you are charged with driving without insurance in Georgia, there are several defenses and strategies that can potentially mitigate the consequences:
Quickly Obtaining Insurance
If you did not have insurance at the time of the ticket but quickly obtained coverage afterward, a skilled Georgia traffic lawyer can negotiate to have your charge reduced to “No Proof of Insurance,” which carries far lighter penalties. The sooner you secure coverage, the better your chances.
Nolo Contendere Plea
You may also consider entering a Nolo (no contest) plea, which you can use once every five years. This plea will not reduce the fines but can prevent the 60-day license suspension typically associated with driving without insurance.
Proof of Insurance from Another Policy
If you were driving someone else’s vehicle, your own insurance policy might cover you. If so, this can serve as a complete defense against the charge.
Ensure Correct VIN Reporting
Make sure your insurance company has correctly reported your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to the State of Georgia. Incorrect reporting could lead to a citation for no insurance, even if you are insured.
Accidents Without Insurance
If you were involved in an accident without insurance, the consequences could be severe, including potential lawsuits and license suspension. Paying any claims out of pocket may allow you to plead Nolo and retain your license, but this is a difficult option for most people.
These defenses highlight the importance of consulting with Gwinnett County traffic attorney, Adam D Brown, to explore your options and potentially lessen the impact of a no insurance charge.
Contact Adam D Brown for Help Today
If you have been charged with “No Insurance” or “No Proof of Insurance” in Georgia, the consequences can be severe, including fines, license suspension, and even potential jail time. Navigating these charges can be complex, and the impact on your driving record and future can be significant.
At the Law Office of Adam D. Brown, we understand how overwhelming these situations can be, and we are here to help. With extensive experience in handling traffic offenses in Gwinnett County and throughout Georgia, we are committed to providing you with the knowledgeable, aggressive defense you need.
Do not face these charges alone. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation and let us help protect your rights and driving privileges. Call us at (404) 883-8893.
