Not having car insurance in Connecticut is a serious matter. However, sometimes instances arise where you might be involved in an auto accident and not have proper coverage. Here are three things to keep in mind if you find yourself in this circumstance.
#1: If You Are Not "At Fault" for an Accident
Connecticut is one of many states that is considered "at fault" state. This means that the party responsible for an accident is the one that is generally financially responsible. If you get into an accident where it appears that the other driver is 100% at fault, then their insurance company will be handling the whole process. In this case, not having insurance will most likely not affect you at all. However, be warned that sometimes insurance companies place shared responsibility on both parties, which will change this a bit.
#2: If You Are "At Fault" for an Accident (But the Other Driver Had Insurance)
If the accident was your fault, then you might run into problems with not having insurance. If the other driver was insured, they have the option of going through their own insurance carrier to get damages and/or medical bills paid for. Their insurance carrier will then sue you for the damages that they paid for on your behalf. This can often lead to garnished wages and/or other financial difficulties on your behalf.
#3: If You Are "At Fault" for an Accident (And the Other Driver Had No Insurance)
If the other driver had no insurance, but you were still the responsible party for the accident, then paying out of pocket is the only option. This can happen where you pay directly for the damages. Or, this can also mean that they pay for the damages themselves and hire a lawyer to help reclaim their funds from you through the court system.
In any case, driving without insurance is a serious matter. Paying a small monthly premium is a lot less of a financial burden than possibly being sued or having to miss work to make court appointments. Speak with your Marlborough or West Hartford independent agent today about securing your policy.