Most motorists in the United States are required to carry evidence in their cars showing that they have purchased adequate protection for their vehicles. These documents list important information about an individual’s policy and are essential after an automobile accident. In many states, sufficient evidence is also required to register a motor vehicle, and must be presented when stopped by a police officer.

The accepted forms of financial responsibility are not usually limited to car insurance policies, and which forms are acceptable depends on where an automobile is legally registered. For example, for drivers in Washington, financial responsibility can be made evident with a certificate from the state treasurer indicating that the holder has deposited $60,000 in cash. Most people, however, generally present either a detailed card or policy binder.

When someone buys car coverage, they are usually given a proof of auto insurance card that lists specific information about the policy. This should include the name of the insurer, policy number, vehicle identification number, names of the insured motorists, and the policy effective and expiration dates. Additionally, this card should also include a description of the year, make, and model of the automobile.

Verification of Proof of car insurance

To avoid many of the consequences that can result from operating a motor vehicle without evidence of financial responsibility, drivers should carry a copy of their proof in the insured car. The consequences for driving without sufficient evidence differs depending on the state, but penalties generally include fines and the possibility of having the car impounded. More serious consequences could include the suspension of the driver’s license and registration, or a jail sentence.

To help reduce the number of uninsured motorists on the road, many states have adopted electronic verification systems that allow law enforcement officers and approved officials to instantly determine whether or not a motorist is adequately covered. For example, the Texas Department of Insurance has adopted a program called TexasSure that allows for instantaneous policy verification.

Many of the systems that help state officials determine electronically whether or not a motorist has purchased adequate coverage also produce random samples from registered motorists, and officials follow up on those samples in an effort to decrease the number of uninsured drivers. Even though advancements in technology have made it easier for authorities to determine whether or not a motorist is covered, it is still essential for people to carry physical proof of insurance within the automobile at all times. In many states, an insured vehicle owner without physical verification may still suffer legal consequences if stopped by an officer.