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There are over 28 million uninsured drivers in the US right now, and it’s a big problem. But you’re not like them. You’re smart and responsible, and you know that having car insurance is the only way to cover yourself if something goes wrong on the road.
Still, you just bought a new car, and driving it is the only way you can get around. As the responsible person you are, you head to Google for clarity to your question, “Can I drive a car without insurance if I just bought it?” It’s a common question, and it can be answered in two ways.
Because knowing what the law says is crucial to protecting yourself when uninsured, let’s look at what you need to know about driving your new car. It might save you from a huge fine later on. Keep reading to find out what you can and cannot do with your new car.
Driving without insurance is illegal regardless of how long you’ve owned the vehicle. The law’s attitude toward this is reflected in the policies of many dealerships.
In most cases, a dealership won’t let you leave without proof of insurance. They know the law and they don’t want to be responsible for your actions afterward.
But if you purchase the car from a friend, they may not ask about your insurance status and still close the sale. In these situations, you can start driving the car immediately without an active policy. This may not be the best idea.
If you’re caught driving without insurance and you have an accident, the law will hold you responsible.
The penalties for driving without insurance in Massachusetts can be severe. You will likely face fines from $500 to $5,000.
You may also lose your license for up to one year. If this happens while you’re on probation or parole because of another crime, your sentence could be extended.
Besides costly fines and a suspended license, there’s also a risk of jail time. The rules of the road in Massachusetts allow a judge to sentence you to up to one year in prison if you’re found guilty of driving without insurance.
And that’s just if you get caught!
Suppose you get into an accident that causes injuries or property damage. In that case, the other driver may sue you for damages. If they win, the court will order you to pay back all medical costs, lost wages, and repair expenses.
You should get insurance as soon as possible. In Massachusetts, you’re required to have car insurance before you can register your car. And even if your state doesn’t require it, it’s common sense to carry coverage for the sake of everyone on the road and yourself.
It’s important to know that the average cost of car insurance in Massachusetts is about $108 per month. Compared to the national average of $1,771/year, Massachusetts’ rates are lower than most states by a significant amount.
While auto insurance in Cambridge may not be as costly as in Miami, for example, it’s understandable why you’re avoiding getting a policy. We’ve all heard the stories of unfair insurance companies and the outrageous rates they charge. However, it’s important to know that there are ways to get affordable car insurance in Massachusetts without sacrificing quality.
You don’t want to get in trouble with the law or pay more than you should for your insurance. With so many choices out there, it's difficult to find a policy that meets all of your needs. Here are some car insurance tips to get the best insurance rate possible:
Any good car insurance guide will teach you that deductibles are a powerful tool for savings. A higher deductible will lower the cost of your monthly premium, which means you’ll save more each year.
Having good credit can qualify you for lower rates on any type of insurance—including auto coverage—so it’s important that you keep track of how well-managed your finances are. A credit score of at least 740 will help you gain access to the best rates.
If there is ever an issue with your credit history, address it immediately so that it won’t get in the way of you obtaining a policy for your new ride.
A good rule of thumb is to find out what the average cost per month would be before making a decision. This way, you’ll feel confident that you’re purchasing adequate coverage while remaining within your budget.
Some insurers may pressure you into getting a more expensive car insurance premium. If this happens, don’t sign anything until you’ve had time to research and talk with people who have dealt with the insurer in the past.
Of course, the most important thing about your new car is that you don’t get into an accident. But if you do, it’s essential that you have enough coverage to protect yourself and your family should anything happen. If you live in Massachusetts, it’s even more important because you risk losing your license.
So the next time you wonder, “Can I drive a car without insurance if I just bought it?”, contact us so you won’t have to worry. We offer insurance rates that you won’t have to think twice about.
