What is the penalty for driving without insurance in Montana?

Auto insurance is required in almost every state, and the Big Sky state is no exception. In the state of Montana, all drivers and car owners are required to possess automotive liability insurance.

This requirement is outlined in the Montana Code Annotated (MCA), and stipulates that liability coverage must reach a required minimum of:

• $25,000 for bodily injury to or death of one person in any one accident and subject to the limit for one person
• $50,000 for bodily injury to or death of two or more persons in any one accident
• $20,000 for damage to or destruction of property of others in any one accident

Although insurance policies sometimes lapse and people fall behind, it is important to renew your policy as quickly as possible and to refrain from driving until it has been renewed.

Car insurance is intended to provide coverage for unforeseen circumstances that can create financial difficulties for the driver found at fault, or, in some cases, drivers who are found to be fully absolved of guilt but encountered another driver who didn’t have insurance.

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Penalties for Driving Without Insurance

In the state of Montana, being found in noncompliance or violation of automotive insurance law is a misdemeanor punishable by both increasing fines and eventual jail time.

Each violation of this law will result in five points on the driver’s record. If a driver accumulates 30 points their license will be revoked.

• First Offense – A first-time violation in the state of Montana is punishable by $250 to $500 in fines, as well as possible imprisonment lasting up to 10 days.
• Second Offense – A second-time violation in the state of Montana is punishable by a set fine of $350, as well as possible imprisonment lasting up to ten days. The recipient is also subject to revocation of vehicle registration lasting up to 90 days.
• Third Offense – A third-time violation in the state of Montana is punishable by a set fine of $500, as well as possible imprisonment lasting up to six months. The recipient is also subject to revocation of vehicle registration lasting up to 180 days.
• Subsequent Offenses – Fourth and subsequent violations in the state of Montana are punishable by a set fine of $500, as well as possible imprisonment lasting up to six months. The recipient is subject to indefinite revocation of vehicle registration and their driver’s license, lasting until proof of insurance is provided to state officials.

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Proof of Insurance Required in Montana

In the state of Montana, drivers are required to carry proof of insurance in their vehicles at all times. Like a driver’s license or vehicle registration, the policyholder must produce proof of insurance if a law enforcement official asks for it.

Since May of 2012, this has been supported by the addition of the Montana Insurance Verification System(MTIVS). This system allows drivers to check their insurance status online from home, which can help prevent lapses in coverage.

MTIVS is now used in traffic stops to help verify a driver’s insurance status, and partially eliminates the need for a physical proof of insurance.

If a driver has lost their card or has an expired card but still holds a valid coverage plan, the responding officer is capable of confirming that the plan is valid and sending the driver on their way.

This system of providing electronic proof has simplified the traffic stop process for both citizens and officers.

How to Get Insurance in Montana

The state of Montana supplies a variety of different policies and rates, but it is recommended that most frequent or inexperienced drivers seek higher coverage than the state minimum. This is not only the case in Montana, but is recommended for drivers across the country.

Montana has among the highest rate of automobile accidents of any state, and both intoxicated and uninsured drivers can make the roads unsafe for the average citizen.

When shopping for car insurance, it’s important to strike a balance between state requirements and personal needs. Whether you’re comparing policies before renewing or a first-time buyer, car insurance research is essential to saving money and getting the best coverage.

While many insurance companies may fit your needs, it is vital to hold out until you find the coverage truly tailored for your situation.

The main mistake made by the consumer when purchasing car insurance is that they may rush to a decision, trying to get the process over with rather than truly seeking the best comparative prices.

Use our free, no obligation rate tool below. Enter your ZIP code and then compare several rates from top insurance companies in your area.

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