There is a misconception among motorists that car insurance is only required when a vehicle is driven. However, a vehicle must have at least the minimum state required insurance coverage even when it is parked on the public roads, regardless of being driven or not. In virtually every state, vehicle owners are required to register and insure their automobiles or follow state rules for being exempt from these requirements, which often require taking the vehicle off the streets. Typically, you would be subject to the same scrutiny of registration and insurance even if you just leave your vehicle parked on the streets but don’t drive it.
Insurance and Registration Requirements
Every state has its own laws regarding vehicle registration and insurance. Registration is essential for every vehicle, whether it is regularly driven or not. Registering a vehicle allows officials to easily locate the owner, send tickets, and verify the vehicle’s legal and insurance status. And a large majority of states require proof of insurance before a vehicle can be registered or a registration renewed. The coverage must be kept as long as the vehicle’s registration is active.
Parking on Public Streets
Regardless of the road’s status, parking on public streets requires at least minimum state required auto insurance coverage. Even if your uninsured car is parked on a private driveway or property, having insurance may be beneficial but not mandatory. However, when the car is parked on a public road that belongs to the city or municipality, insurance becomes a legal requirement.
Verification Systems and Discovering Uninsured Vehicles
Many states have implemented electronic verification systems to track vehicle registration and insurance. These systems help authorities identify uninsured vehicles through the immediate reporting of certain changes by insurance carriers. If an uninsured vehicle is identified, the owner is notified to provide valid insurance within a specified period. Failure to comply may lead to the suspension of license plates and possible vehicle towing.
If an uninsured and unregistered vehicle is left on the public streets, they may be detected by parking attendants or law enforcement or even a neighbor could call to inform the authorities. Then, the vehicle may be towed away, at the expense of the owner. Vehicle impoundment typically involves additional fees and charges that the owner must pay to retrieve their vehicle.
Keeping an Unregistered and Uninsured Vehicle Off the Road
If you choose not to keep your vehicle registered and insured, there are alternatives to consider. You can store the vehicle in a private yard, property, or storage facility where it is away from public roads and not intended to be driven. Contacting the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and filing an off-road declaration may be required, and returning the license plates may also be necessary to avoid potential legal issues.
Whether your vehicle is insured or not, it’s important to keep the registration information up to date with the DMV. This includes notifying the DMV of changes in ownership, address, or any other relevant information. Failure to update registration details can lead to additional penalties and complications, even if the vehicle is not being driven.
Certain cities or municipalities may offer parking permits or exemptions for specific situations. For example, if you live in an area with restricted street parking and need to keep an unregistered and uninsured vehicle temporarily, you may be able to apply for a special parking permit or seek an exemption. These permits and exemptions are typically granted on a case-by-case basis, so it’s important to check with the local authorities for any available options.
The specific processes and requirements for informing the DMV and updating registration can vary by jurisdiction. Therefore, motorists should consult the local DMV or relevant state websites for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Risks and Liabilities of a Car Parked on the Streets
It’s important to note the potential risks and liabilities associated with keeping an unregistered and uninsured vehicle on public streets. Even if the vehicle is parked, accidents or damages caused by the vehicle may still result in legal and financial consequences for the owner. Additionally, if the vehicle is stolen or vandalized, the owner may not be eligible for compensation without insurance coverage.
Penalties and Legal Consequences
The specific penalties and legal consequences for driving or parking an uninsured and unregistered vehicle on public streets vary by jurisdiction. It’s crucial to understand the local laws and regulations to avoid potential fines, vehicle impoundment, and other legal repercussions.