⚖ Violation Reference
No Insurance / Operating Uninsured Vehicle
NY Vehicle & Traffic Law § 319(1) · Traffic & Driving
Legal information only — not legal advice. B-Legal is not a law firm and use of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Consult a licensed attorney before acting.
Overview
Operating a motor vehicle without the required minimum liability insurance. New York requires minimum coverage of $25,000/$50,000 bodily injury and $10,000 property damage. A conviction results in mandatory license and registration suspension for at least one year and a $750 civil penalty to DMV.
Fine Range
$150–$1,500 (civil); license suspension
Surcharge
Varies
How to Contest
- If you had insurance: obtain a certificate of insurance from your carrier proving coverage was in force on the date of the stop
- Appear in court with proof of insurance
- If lapse was brief and unintentional, present evidence of immediate reinstatement
Common Defenses
- Insurance was in force — produce certificate
- Policy lapse was due to insurer error
- Vehicle was inoperable and not being operated on a public road
- Borrowed vehicle — owner's insurance applies
Legal Information Only. This reference is sourced from publicly available NYC/NYS law. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Consult a licensed attorney before taking any action on a legal matter. Need representation? Find an attorney →