In a car accident without insurance: what to do
Stop, check on everyone and call 911 if anyone is hurt; leaving the scene is a crime. Exchange information honestly and get a police report and photos. If the other driver caused it, you may still claim against their insurance. Depending on your state, you may face fines, a suspended license or registration, an SR-22 requirement, and paying for damage you caused. Get insured, and talk to a lawyer if someone was hurt or you’re sued.
Your checklist
- Stop and call 911 if anyone is hurt
- Never leave the scene
- Exchange information honestly
- Get a police report and photos
- Know the possible penalties
- Get insured and get advice
Rather read it? Here’s the whole thing.
At the scene
Stop, check on everyone and call 911 if anyone is hurt. Leaving the scene of a crash is a crime in every state, insured or not.
Be honest
Exchange your name, license and contact information. Lying about insurance can turn a ticket into a criminal charge.
Document
Get a police report, take photos, and get witness contacts.
If the other driver caused it
You may still be able to claim against their insurance for your car and injuries. Some states limit what uninsured drivers can collect for pain and suffering.
Possible consequences
Depending on your state: fines, a suspended license or registration, a requirement to file proof of insurance (often an SR-22) for several years, and paying for damage you caused.
If you owe for damage
The other driver’s insurer may ask you to pay. Ask for proof of the costs, and get any payment plan in writing. Ignoring it can lead to a lawsuit and a suspended license.
Next steps
Get insurance as soon as you can. If someone was hurt, you’re sued, or you got a court date, talk to a lawyer.
Official sources, and where to look
- USA.gov: state motor vehicle servicesusa.gov
- NAIC: your state insurance departmentcontent.naic.org
- NHTSA: road safetynhtsa.gov
[your state] DMV accident report uninsured[your state] minimum car insurance requirements
Common questions
Will I go to jail for driving without insurance?
Usually not for a first offense; fines and suspensions are more common. Penalties are tougher for repeat offenses or if someone was hurt. It depends on your state. More ›
Can my passenger’s or my own health insurance help?
Health insurance usually covers your medical care. Car damage generally isn’t covered without auto insurance. More ›
What happens if I crash without insurance and it’s not my fault?
You can usually still claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance for your damage and injuries, though some states limit pain-and-suffering awards for uninsured drivers. You may still be penalized for driving uninsured. More ›
What happens if I crash without insurance and it is my fault?
You can be personally responsible for the other person’s damage and injuries, plus state penalties like fines and license suspension. More ›
What is an SR-22?
A form your insurer files with the state to prove you have at least the minimum coverage. It’s often required for a few years after driving uninsured or other violations. More ›
Can I get insurance after an accident?
Yes, but it may cost more. Coverage only applies to accidents after the policy starts. More ›
Talk to a traffic or accident lawyer
Especially if someone was hurt or you’re sued.
No one is listed here yet. Check back soon.
Know someone who needs this?
Not yet reviewed by an expert. Last checked 2026-10-29. This is general help, not legal, medical or professional advice. Rules are different in every state.