Between the cost of fuel and routine maintenance, owning a car can be expensive, but if you’re a driver that’s set on reducing these types of expenses, it’s not a good idea to skip on car insurance. In Ohio, as well as other states, it’s illegal to drive a vehicle without minimum liability auto insurance—and doing so can result in serious consequences. If you’re wondering whether or not to invest in this legally-required protection, consider these dangers of being uninsured during a car accident.

What Can Happen If You Don’t Have Car Insurance & Get in an Accident?

If you get a driver's license or register a vehicle in Ohio, the BMV will require you to sign a form that acknowledges your financial responsibility. The minimum car insurance coverage you’ll need should consist of at least $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 bodily injury for two or more people, and $25,000 property damage.

If you do not meet this requirement and cause an accident that results in death or $400 or more worth of property damage, you can face several penalties, including:

• Suspension of driver’s license until all damages are paid for. This suspension can be increased to one or two years on second and subsequent offenses, respectively. 
• Loss of vehicle registration and license plate until penalty requirements are met.
• Payment of $100 to reinstate license on a first offense. This payment is $300 on second offenses and $600 on additional offenses.
• Required high-risk auto insurance between three and five years.  

What Are Some Other Reasons to Invest in Auto Insurance?

Savings

Your car insurance will pay for injury-related and property damages up to the amount listed on the policy. This coverage will reduce the amount you’d be personally responsible for if you caused an accident and were uninsured.

Legal Defense

Any parties harmed in an accident that you caused can sue you for damages. Vehicle insurance offers protection to cover the cost of legal defense so you can have adequate representation in court.

Personal Property Protection

State-required liability insurance will help cover the damages you cause to others. However, if you have a higher level of coverage, you can also protect your personal property. Collision coverage, for example, will pay for vehicle repairs or replacement after an accident—including those you cause. Comprehensive coverage, on the other hand, will pay for non-collision related expenses—such as those related to hailstorms, falling tree branches, and vandalism.

When you’re looking for ways to cut the cost of owning a car, don’t drive uninsured. Instead, turn to Robert Taylor Insurance for affordable coverage in Lorain, OH. This independent agency provides access to a wide range of carriers—such as Progressive® and Nationwide®. With a personalized approach, your agent will introduce you to the best policies that fit your coverage needs and budget. To learn more about their services and other areas of coverage, visit this local insurance agency online, or call (440) 277-5191 for a free quote.