Why Officers Ask for Proof of Insurance

Uh, oh! In your rear view mirror you see the dreaded blue and red lights flashing. You are now being told by the police officer to pull your car over to the side of the road. They walk up to your window, while you sit there wondering what you possibly could have done wrong. They ask you for your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance. Wait, my proof of insurance? Why is this something that the police officer will want to see? There are people who are confused on why this is something that is asked for at this time. If you are one of these people you might be interested to read the following information. When it comes to your car you must know what is going on at all times.

Why Do They Need Proof?

It is important to understand that the police officer is not asking you for proof of insurance because it is good for their health. They are asking you this question because they want to make sure that you are protected, as well as those in the cars around you. It is the law to have at least the minimal amount of auto insurance recommended by your state. If you do not have auto insurance you are breaking the law, and you are making an auto accident much more trouble for you and those involved. The police officer just wants to know that you are following the rules. If you do not have car insurance, you can expect a citation!

What are They Checking the Card For?

It would not be wise to try and fool a police officer by handing them an expired car insurance card. They actually have a reason for checking to see if you have proof. They want to make sure that you have current car insurance. They will want to see that your card is not expired. If you have a card, but it is expired, the police officer will just treat the situation as though you have no auto insurance. Remember, it is not a formality, it is actually a rule. They also want to make sure that the person driving the car has auto insurance, by checking to see if the names on the driver’s license and the insurance card match. Please, do not try any tricks!

I Have Insurance, But Not the Card

Now, there are times when you might actually have insurance, but not the card. You must always keep your insurance card in your car! As soon as you get the new card make it a point to put it in your vehicle. If the situation of being without a card ever occurs, you can still expect to be written up. The officer will tell you a way that you can fight the charge. This will usually involve sending in the ticket with your proof of current insurance. Just make sure you ask what you can do. Avoid this situation though from the beginning by taking your time and putting your insurance card in your car immediately.