Drivers who fail to maintain Vermont and Virginia auto insurance coverage as required under state law will be subject to penalties. Virginia does allow drivers to pay an annual fee of $500 which allows them to operate a vehicle without liability insurance coverage in place.
The driver who chooses this option needs to realize that he or she will be responsible for paying for any damages he or she causes in an at-fault accident personally. A person who is considering this option should think about it very carefully. While paying the fees allow the driver to get plates or a decal for the vehicle, getting auto insurance coverage in place is a quick and easy process, especially if the driver shops for coverage online.
Penalties in Vermont
Drivers who cannot show proof of insurance coverage during a traffic stop will be fined $100 and two points will be added to their driving record. The driver will also be required to demonstrate proof of financial responsibility with the state Department of Motor Vehicles. A driver’s license can be revoked if a driver is caught without insurance after having been involved in an accident.
Penalties in Virginia
In VA, drivers who get caught without having insurance coverage in place will have their driver’s license and vehicle registration suspended. To have them reinstated, the driver will need to pay a $500 statutory fee and have his or her insurer file proof of coverage through an SR-22 (Financial Responsibility Insurance Certificate) for three years. The driver in this situation may also have to pay a reinstatement fee as well.
