Auto Coverage in Virginia
Virginia Auto Insurance
Virginia drivers must provide evidence of financial responsibility by purchasing an auto liability insurance policy to protect you in case of an accident. In order to show financial responsibility, you'll need to meet certain minimum requirements in the State of Virginia.
Minimum Virginia auto insurance
In Virginia, auto insurance policies must have the following minimum amounts in coverage for drivers:
- Bodily Injury and Death: $25,000 to cover one person in any one accident, and $50,000 to cover all injuries
- Property Damages: $20,000
Virginia follows a tort system for determining fault in an accident. One of the drivers involved in a collision will be determined to have caused the accident, and all of the damages and costs will be paid through that at-fault driver's insurance policy.
If you're at fault, and your insurance coverage isn't enough to pay for all the damages, you can risk paying the costs out of pocket, and you could lose your driving privileges if you can't afford to compensate the other victims.
Penalties without Virginia auto insurance
Drivers don't have to carry insurance with them at all times, though it's recommended. Police officers can ask drivers whether the vehicle's insured , or if they're pulled over in a routine traffic stop. If the officer suspects the vehicle isn't insured, a traffic ticket can be issued and if the vehicle driver can't prove he is insured, there will be a fine.
If there is an accident, the police will contact the insurance company to complete the accident report and verify insurance coverage. In Virginia,
an uninsured driver will be charged a $500 statutory fee, and must buy insurance, and have the insurer file an SR-22 certificate with the state for three years. In addition, driving privileges will be taken away until the driver can show proof of insurance, and he will have to pay a $30 fee to reinstate the right to drive.