What are the penalties for driving a vehicle with expired insurance?
3 Answers
If the owner or manager of a motor vehicle fails to purchase compulsory traffic accident liability insurance for the motor vehicle as required, the traffic management department will impound the motor vehicle. If the owner or manager of the motor vehicle subsequently obtains the compulsory traffic accident liability insurance as required, the motor vehicle shall be returned promptly.
Having driven for decades, I've seen many fellow drivers penalized for expired insurance. The penalties are quite severe. First, there's a fine, usually ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 yuan, depending on the region and severity of the case. Points deduction on the driver's license is mandatory, typically 12 points, which means you'll have to retake the theoretical exam, costing both time and money. If caught on the spot, the vehicle might be impounded, leading to additional expenses like towing and storage fees. The scariest part is the liability in case of an accident—without insurance, you'd have to cover all damages out of pocket, potentially amounting to tens or even hundreds of thousands. I recommend developing a habit of checking your insurance expiration date monthly, rather than rushing to fix it at the last minute.
As an automotive enthusiast, I understand that the penalties for driving an uninsured vehicle are quite complex. The most common consequence is a hefty fine, typically over 1,000 yuan, with possible additional fines depending on the circumstances. License points deduction is usually 12 points, which temporarily invalidates the driver's license and requires retaking the test at the DMV. Temporary vehicle impoundment also needs to be addressed, with towing and storage fees costing at least several hundred yuan. Legal consequences also include full personal liability for accidents, increased insurance premiums, and spending an extra one to two thousand yuan when renewing insurance. Developing a habit of regularly checking insurance policies is essential to avoid unnecessary troubles.
