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What Happens If I Crash and Can’t Afford to Pay?

What happens if I crash and can’t afford to payCar accidents can be frightening and expensive experiences. When a collision occurs, and you don’t have the financial resources to cover the costs, the obvious question arises: What happens if I crash and can’t afford to pay?

Having auto insurance is mandatory in most states, including California. This requirement is meant to financially protect drivers in the event of traffic accidents. Driving without insurance can lead to severe consequences, especially if you’re at fault in an accident. These consequences can include fines, license suspension or revocation, and the need to personally cover accident-related expenses.

What Happens If I Crash and Can’t Afford to Pay? (California, 2024)

If you’re in an accident without insurance and don’t have the funds to pay for damages, there are several options to consider. These options depend on the circumstances of the accident. Below, we’ll explore these scenarios and the potential consequences if you lack funds.

At-Fault Accidents

If you are found to be responsible for the accident, the injured party or their insurance company may attempt to recover costs directly from you. However, some states have a “no-fault” system, so consulting with a car accident lawyer in California is recommended to determine liability percentages.

If you’re responsible for an accident and uninsured, you may face various consequences and personal costs:

  • Repair or replacement expenses: You will need to pay for damages, including repairs or replacements of affected vehicles or properties.
  • Medical expenses: If others are injured in the accident, you will be responsible for covering their medical bills.
  • License suspension or revocation: Most states will suspend your license if you’re caught driving without insurance, and repeat offenses could lead to revocation.
  • Vehicle impoundment: The officer at the scene may choose to tow your vehicle if you’re driving uninsured.
  • Fines: You may face fines for driving without insurance, the amount of which will depend on the specifics of the accident.
  • Jail time: While a first offense might not lead to jail, repeated incidents increase the likelihood of incarceration.
  • Higher insurance premiums: Insurance companies view uninsured drivers as higher risk, which results in more expensive premiums.

Non-Fault Accidents

Even if you’re not at fault, you could still face consequences for being uninsured. These include:

  • License suspension or revocation: Even as a non-fault driver, you will be required to provide proof of insurance at the scene, and failing to do so can result in a suspended license.
  • Fines: You may face fines for not having insurance, even if you didn’t cause the accident.
  • Vehicle impoundment: Similar to at-fault cases, a police officer might decide to impound your car if you’re found driving without insurance.
  • Out-of-pocket expenses: Without an insurance policy, you’ll be responsible for paying for repairs or replacing your vehicle entirely.

Call an Accident Lawyer Today

If you find yourself without insurance or funds to cover a car accident, don’t panic. Call My Lawyer Mark at (866) 721-5808. Our attorneys are here to help and will assist you in your language. Plus, our fees are deducted from the final settlement we secure for you, meaning you won’t have to pay us out of pocket. If we don’t win, you don’t pay.