In the state of New Jersey, driving without insurance or not being able to show proof of auto insurance when requested is a serious offense. A citation for this violation of the New Jersey law may result in fines, community service, license suspension and surcharges.

The New Jersey insurance regulatory body (DOBI) states that the penalties for driving uninsured are getting more severe, in addition to risking economic loss by not having insurance protection, you risk fines, suspension of driver's license or registration and even time in jail. In the future, your car could be impounded if you are caught behind the wheel without coverage.

Typically a first time infraction of NJSA 39:6B-2 includes a fine of at least $300 and a loss of license for a period of time and perhaps community service as well. There are court costs and surcharges that are required to be paid as well as the penalties listed above.

The normal surcharge amount for operating an uninsured vehicle is $250. If you do not pay your surcharges; MVC will suspend your driving privileges indefinitely and take action in the State Superior Court. This may include securing a lien against your property, garnishing your wages or other similar actions.

The DOBI notes that if you do not have any liability coverage, you are responsible for paying for the pain, suffering and other personal hardships and some economic damages, such as lost wages, that you cause. Your assets will be at risk, including the risk of having money deducted from your wages if a judgment is entered against you. And, if you lack coverage and someone hits you, you cannot sue.

So as you can see driving without insurance and being in an accident can be very costly to you as your driving privileges and vehicle's registration are likely to be suspended on top of fines and surcharges that you will be given in court. If you at fault in the accident you are now personally responsible for the cost of other party's damages, both property and any bodily injuries.

The state of New Jersey takes uninsured motorist seriously and gives out harsh penalties for those found driving without insurance, especially if the driver causes an accident. If you have been cited for driving without insurance and were in an accident you can contact the court listed on your ticket to see what penalties you are facing and if obtaining car insurance before your court date will help you in any way.