What Happens if You’re Caught Driving Without Insurance in Nevada?

Nevada’s Financial Responsibility Law 

Nevada’s financial responsibility law, which is outlined in NRS 485.185, mandates that you must have minimum liability insurance. Nevada law mandates these minimums to ensure drivers can cover damages if they cause an accident. According to the DMV proof of insurance law, you must have:

• $25,000 for bodily injury to one person
• $50,000 for bodily injury to two or more persons
• $20,000 for property damage

So what happens if you drive without car insurance? The legal consequences of no car insurance (or even insufficient coverage) can leave you facing a license suspension, tickets, and impound fees. 

Nevada tracks insurance coverage electronically, so the DMV will know if your policy lapses. Since law enforcement officers query the state database when running your license and vehicle tag, they will also know if you lack the proper insurance. 

Getting pulled over without a valid car insurance policy doesn’t just lead to a ticket. You could also have your car towed and impounded, which adds to the financial hardship of the situation. 

Penalties for Driving Without Insurance in Nevada 

Now you know the answer to “Can you drive without insurance in Nevada?” So, here are the penalties for violating this state law. The no car insurance penalty in Nevada uses an offense-based tier system. According to NRS 485.187, the penalties are as follows:

First Offense

• $250 reinstatement fee
• Fine of $250 to $1,000
• Driver’s license suspension until proof of insurance is provided
• Vehicle registration suspension 
• Possible SR-22 requirements for three years 

Second and Subsequent Offenses (Within Five Years)

• $500 to $1,000 fine
• License suspension
• Registration suspension
• $500 reinstatement fee
• Mandatory SR-22 filing 

Fines for no proof of insurance in Nevada increase for subsequent offenses. They can also include license suspension, reinstatement fees, and vehicle impoundment. 

“I Just Forgot My Insurance Card”: The Difference Between No Insurance and No Proof of Insurance

There is no separate “failure to provide proof of insurance” law in Nevada. Failure to provide insurance documentation can result in the same fines outlined above. DMV proof of insurance requirements are strictly enforced. Driving without proof of insurance tickets are the same as other no-insurance citations. 

The good news is that you may be able to dispute a ticket for no insurance in Nevada if you electronically submit proof that your policy was valid at the time you were cited. Make sure you dispute the driving without proof of insurance ticket before the payment deadline. 

Usually, submitting proof of insurance online will be enough to have the ticket dismissed. The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles explains how to submit proof of insurance to DMV online.

However, you may want to consult with an experienced attorney for assistance. If you can’t provide proof of insurance, you’ll face the full penalties outlined above. Always carry proof to avoid unnecessary fines and the hassle of submitting your insurance card online. 

What To Do After an Accident Without Insurance

The consequences of no insurance after an accident vary based on whether you are at fault. 

If You Are at Fault

If you are personally liable for bodily injury or property damage and you lack proper insurance, you might have to cover these expenses out of your own pocket. The other party may sue you, which can create a huge financial burden. 

While the other party’s uninsured motorist coverage might pay initially, it can still pursue you for the remaining costs. If it wins its case, you could have your wages garnished or your assets seized. 

Uninsured motorist accident consequences can also make it difficult for you to get affordable coverage in the future. With that in mind, do your best to maintain adequate insurance coverage at all times. Driving without the proper insurance is simply not worth the risk. 

If You Are Not at Fault

A no insurance coverage accident claim isn’t quite as complicated if you aren’t at fault. However, recovering damages can be tough without an insurance company backing you. You can sue the at-fault driver, but their ability to pay matters. 

In either case, you should talk to a Las Vegas personal injury lawyer. An experienced attorney will help you evaluate your options and hold the at-fault party accountable for your pain and suffering. If you are being sued, a skilled legal professional can protect your interests and reduce the risk of lasting financial consequences. 

How an Experienced Attorney Can Help When You’ve Failed to Provide Insurance 

If you’ve incurred a penalty for driving without insurance in Nevada, you need to speak to a legal professional right away. An experienced attorney from Adam S. Kutner, Injury Attorneys, assists with insurance-related cases, including those involving personal injury or property damage. 

We assist by:

• Guiding you through DMV processes for license reinstatement and registration suspension issues.
• Defending against lawsuits if you’re sued for damages.
• Negotiating with insurance providers or the other party’s insurer.
• Advising on uninsured motorist claims to maximize compensation.
• Protecting your rights to reduce legal consequences.

Don’t face these serious repercussions alone. Let our experienced legal team stand up for your rights and protect your interests.

FAQ

Have you been in a car accident? Did you or another party lack the required insurance? We can help. At Adam S. Kutner, Injury Attorneys, we will help you reach the best possible result in your case, regardless of the circumstances. Contact us today for a confidential, no-obligation conversation about your case.