What Happens If I Don’t Have Car Insurance?

Driving without car insurance in Texas is not only risky, but it can also carry serious legal and financial consequences that you may not be aware of as an immigrant.

Avoid fines, license suspension, vehicle impoundment, and liability for damages by comparing car insurance in the U.S.. It's better to plan now than to pay later.

What Happens If You Don’t Have Auto Insurance?

In Texas, the law requires all drivers to have minimum liability insurance, commonly known as 30/60/25, with the following coverages:

• $30,000 for bodily injury per person.
• $60,000 per accident.
• $25,000 for property damage or proof of financial responsibility.

For immigrants, a lack of a U.S. driving record can result in higher premiums or limited coverage options.

Alternative documents for migrants who wish to purchase car insurance

-Passport -Consular ID or ITIN

They also offer policies even without a traditional U.S. driver's license.

Penalty for Driving Without Car Insurance in Texas

If you're caught driving uninsured in Texas, the consequences escalate depending on whether it's a first offense or repeat.

Penalty Table

If you do have insurance and can prove that you had it at the time of the crime, the court must dismiss the charges under Texas law § 601.193.

In the event of an accident, especially if there is serious injury or death, fines can reach up to $4,000 and potentially one year in jail.

You also face civil liability for the full cost of injuries and property damage.

What Can You Do If You Don’t Have Car Insurance?

• Obtain insurance immediately. Many companies in Texas specialize in working with immigrants or noncitizens, accepting alternative IDs.
• Seek policies even without a license. Some insurers offer minimum liability products for drivers without a U.S. license, though premiums may be higher.
• File an SR-22 if required. After certain violations, Texas may require you to file an SR-22 (certificate of financial responsibility) for a period of time.
• If ticketed, show proof in court. If you can demonstrate you had valid insurance at the moment of the stop, your charges may be dismissed.
• Consult legal aid. As a migrant, whether from Guatemala, the Dominican Republic, or Equatorial Guinea, you have rights under Texas law and U.S. federal law. You may file claims or defend yourself without disclosing immigration status.

• Right to legal counsel: Even if your immigration status is uncertain, you can consult a lawyer for your accident or traffic case. • Equal rights in civil claims: Texas laws protect any driver’s ability to sue or claim damages regardless of nationality. • Avoid admitting immigration status: Focus conversations with law enforcement on the traffic matter; you may be asked to identify yourself, but are not required to disclose status.

If you're a migrantç and you are driving without insurance, do not delay in securing coverage. You can also compare auto insurance quotes online you can compare cost per month, with no medical exam. Your safety, finances, and legal peace of mind depend on acting now.