Reader’s Question:

What should I be expecting if I drive without car insurance? What are the penalties? I live in Detroit, Michigan.

Leo

Detroit, MI

The state of Michigan requires no-fault insurance so that every registered vehicle must be insured. It is a misdemeanor to operate your vehicle or let your car be driven without basic no-fault auto coverage. If you are convicted of driving without the mandatory car insurance in Michigan, you may be fined up to $500, put in jail for a year or both.

If you are unable to show proof of car insurance, thus driving without car insurance, you may be found guilty of a civil violation. The court may order your license to be suspended for 30 days or until you can show proof of no-fault coverage on your car.

You may be required to buy a pre-paid non-cancelable insurance policy before you can renew your car’s registration. To get the car insurance coverage that you need in Michigan, you may start by browsing various insurance company websites.