I am sixteen years old and I live in Ohio, what is the consequence for driving a vehicle without auto insurance in Parma, OH and getting involve in a car accident? How about my parents, will they have a penalties as well?

Roy

Parma, OH

It is illegal to operate a vehicle without insurance or any form of Financial Responsibility (FR) on the car in Parma and in any parts in Ohio. It is also illegal for any car owner to permit anyone else to drive the owner’s vehicle with FR proof.

If you are caught driving without car insurance the penalties can include: driver’s license suspension for a minimum of ninety days and up to two years, impoundment of your car and/or license plates plus fines and court costs.

If you are involved in an accident without auto insurance, or other Financial Responsibility coverage, additional penalties may be applied.

You may also be required to maintain special FR coverage on file in the form of SR22 certificate with the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) for a period of 3 to 5 years.

If it was your parent’s uninsured vehicle that you were operating, they could have penalties as well. In addition since you are a minor they might be held liable for your actions and therefore be responsible for the damages you caused in the crash.