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What Risks You Face Without Auto Insurance
Author David Schneider | May 23,2007
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It would be nice to think that the average American citizen who is of legal age to drive realizes how risky it is to operate a vehicle without insurance. Yes, that's a pleasant thought indeed. While we're at it, we might as well fantasize about living in a world where eating french fries makes you skinny, your children listen more than they speak and it rains gumdrops. But why waste time living in a dreamland that will never actually exist? The sad fact of the matter is that many of the people sharing the road with you are doing so without proper insurance.
Obviously, you are not this kind of moronically irresponsible individual, but there's a chance you might know one (or several). So for their benefit, let's review the reasons why it's such a bad idea to stumble through life as an uninsured driver.
First of all, liability insurance is absolutely mandatory. And if you don't believe me on this, just get pulled over some time and tell the cop you don't have any. While many motorists do not consider having only liability coverage to be sufficient, it is the bedrock from which a comprehensive insurance package is formed. We all owe a debt of responsibility to our fellow drivers to have a current and reputable liability policy in place each and every time we get behind the wheel.
Beyond that basic rule, there are a host of other reasons why it's critical to remain insured as a driver, starting right now. Primary among these is the financial reality of the situation. Specifically, how much is it going to cost when you finally come to your senses and realize you need to purchase some auto insurance? The longer you have been driving without a policy, the more it's likely to cost you to buy one. Insurance companies almost always do a thorough investigation of any driver's record and prior claims history. They will determine whether you've gotten any tickets in the past several years, as well as if you have reported a high number of accidents.
It's inevitable that your prospective insurer will discover you've been driving without insurance, and the results are not apt to be pretty. The great probability is that you will be classified as a high-risk driver - even if your driving record is so clean you could eat lunch off it. As a high-risk candidate, your headaches multiply in a hurry.
First of all, some insurance companies might reject your application right off the bat. No insurer is obligated to issue a policy to a driver who poses an unreasonable amount of risk. Still, you'll almost certainly find some insurer willing to sell you a policy, but guess what? That's right, your premiums are going to be much higher than they would be for a driver with a clean record who's maintained an insurance policy all along. It is true that some companies may be willing to cut you a break in this situation, but why take the risk? Since you're going to get insurance anyway, it's smart to do it now instead of later.
By taking a proactive approach, not only will you avoid any potentially unpleasant run-ins with the law, but you'll keep more cash in your pocket. |
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