Vehicle Insurance Is Required
In all 50 states, state law requires that you have automobile liability insurance. While this does not have to cover your own vehicle, the insurance must cover damages you cause to others, known as liability coverage. Oklahoma requires that you keep valid proof of liability insurance in your vehicle at all times and provide it to law enforcement when asked. If you are pulled over and do not have proof of liability insurance, you could receive a ticket. While individuals typically do not retain a lawyer to fight traffic charges, there are consequences that you may want to consider before representing yourself in court.
Potential Consequences
While it is considered a relatively minor offense in terms of degree, a conviction for not having proof of liability insurance can have real consequences. If you are convicted, the Department of Public Safety is required to suspend your driver’s license. This will stay in effect until you pay any required fees, and provide proof of actual insurance to the department. Furthermore, if a police officer catches you driving with a suspended license, your license can be immediately seized and your vehicle can be towed and stored.
Even if you had insurance when you received the ticket, but could not furnish proof, you still must abide by the court procedures. State law allows you to come to court and provide proof that the policy was in effect. If you do so, your license will not be suspended and you will not have to pay fines.
With these procedures and potential consequences in mind, you may wish to consult with a Tulsa lawyer if you are are facing a ticket for no proof of liability insurance.
A Tulsa Lawyer Can Tell You More
If are worried about losing your driver’s license or paying fines, you should talk to a Tulsa criminal defense attorney. For a confidential and initial strategy session, contact the Seventh Street Tulsa Law Firm by calling (918) 932-2777.