Colorado state statutes restrict driving privileges. Motorists have to follow traffic laws. They need to maintain a driver’s license and register their vehicles with the state. They also have to carry mandatory minimum car insurance.
During a traffic stop or after a collision, a police officer may accuse a driver of operating a vehicle without mandatory insurance if they cannot present proof of current coverage. The driver then faces serious consequences. Driving without insurance is more than just a minor ticket. It is a Class 1 misdemeanor traffic offense.
What are the possible penalties people face for driving without insurance?
The driver’s history determines the penalties
The consequences for traffic infractions usually increase with each offense. The first time a driver faces accusations of driving without insurance, they may face a fine of $500 or more.
The state may reduce the fine if the driver can prove that they have new insurance. The state also generally suspends the driver’s license until they have proof of insurance and adds four points to their record. Occasionally, driving without insurance can lead to jail time for a first offense. The law allows for between 10 days and one year in state custody.
The penalties are higher for a second offense within five years of the first. The minimum fine increases to $1,000. The driver faces a four-month license suspension. The license suspension increases to eight months after a third or subsequent offense within five years.
The points recorded, minimum fine and possible jail time all remain the same. The courts are much more likely to impose a sentence of incarceration or order someone to perform community service after repeat offenses.
Anyone accused of driving without insurance may need help responding effectively, and that’s okay. Fighting traffic tickets, including misdemeanor traffic offenses, can help drivers protect their licenses and limit their potential financial penalties.