Auto insurance is mandatory in all 50 states, including Arizona. As in most plates, driving without auto insurance in Arizona can be a risky decision with potentially severe consequences. Driving without insurance is generally considered unlawful and can lead to state-imposed fines. What’s more, a lapse can stay on your record for years and impact your rates if you switch insurers. Drivers without insurance may be issued citations, have their vehicle impounded, and may even face jail time if found guilty of not having the proper coverage.
That said, while it is always best to carry proof of some form of auto insurance coverage, there are certain exceptions to the rule that may temporarily allow individuals to drive without this protection.
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO CARRY COMPREHENSIVE AUTO INSURANCE
In Arizona, it is required by law that all drivers maintain automobile insurance. There are several reasons for this, including protecting drivers from financial hardship in the event of a crash and encouraging responsible driving habits. Without car insurance, drivers may be unable to cover the costs of property damage or personal injury resulting from a collision. Also, should an uninsured driver be involved in a crash, they may be subject to substantial fines and other penalties.
Therefore, It is always important to consider the legality of driving without car insurance in Arizona. The state’s Motor Vehicle Services (MVS) requires all drivers to carry liability insurance. Failure to have auto insurance can result in hefty fines and other penalties. Drivers can be held liable for any damages caused by an uninsured driver. Not having insurance puts you at risk of being fined and having your license suspended if you are involved in an accident. Additionally, even if you are not involved in an accident, if you are pulled over and do not have proof of insurance, you can be fined and have your license suspended.
WHEN IT MAY BE OK TO DRIVE WITHOUT CAR INSURANCE
Although Arizona is a state that requires drivers to carry auto insurance, there are certain situations in which it is acceptable to drive without it. The most common scenario is if you are driving a borrowed car that is already insured by the owner. In this case, you are likely covered by the owner’s insurance policy, and so it is not necessary to be carrying your own auto insurance. However, if you are driving your own car, then it is not okay to drive without auto insurance in Arizona.
POSSIBLE EXCEPTION: GRADE PERIOD IF YOU JUST BOUGHT A NEW CAR
When someone buys a new car in Arizona, they should notify their car insurance provider about the change. But the time that person has to do so may vary, as there isn’t a specific amount of time that insurance companies must give people to switch their existing policy to a new car. The state’s new-car grace period refers to how long insured drivers are allowed to drive a newly purchased vehicle before adding it to an existing car insurance policy.
That said, the Arizona new-car insurance grace period is typically about 2 to 30 days. Therefore, it’s important to find out how much time you have to contact your insurance company and how much coverage your new car will have according to your specific policy details.
ASK INSURANCE PROVIDER FOR MOST APPROPRIATE CAR INSURANCE POLICY COVERAGE
Any time you’re considering obtaining car insurance or making changes to your existing coverage, it’s always a good idea to speak with a car insurance provider first. There may be requirements that determine whether or not you’re eligible. Different plans may offer different coverage options at different prices. Most of all, you want to stay on the right side of the law, so be sure that whatever you’re getting will cover you and any other members of your household who may be behind the wheel.
No matter your questions, an Arizona Auto Insurance Provider will let you know the best way to proceed.
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