Understanding Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility
Dallas Ticket Attorney Jeff Beltz
If you’ve received a traffic ticket in Texas for “Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility,” you’re not alone. This offense is commonly referred to as a “no insurance” ticket. It means that at the time you were stopped by law enforcement, you could not provide proof of valid auto insurance for the vehicle you were operating.
Consequences of a “No Insurance” Conviction
Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility in Texas: Understanding the Law and Penalties
In Texas, operating a motor vehicle without maintaining financial responsibility is a violation of the Texas Transportation Code, specifically under Section 601.051. This law mandates that all drivers must have a valid auto liability insurance policy or other approved forms of financial security to cover potential damages or injuries in the event of a car accident.
A conviction for Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility can lead to several negative consequences, including:
- Fines and Court Costs: You will be required to pay fines and court costs, which can vary depending on the specific court and circumstances.
- Driver License Suspension: Perhaps one of the most significant consequences is the potential for your driver license to be suspended if the conviction is reported to the Texas DPS. This can severely impact your ability to commute to work, school, and handle daily responsibilities.
- Increased Insurance Rates: A conviction for no insurance will likely result in a significant increase in your future auto insurance premiums.
- A Permanent Mark on Your Driving Record: This conviction will become part of your permanent driving record, which can be viewed by insurance companies and other entities.
A person commits this offense if they operate a motor vehicle on a public road in Texas without having one of the following:
- A motor vehicle liability insurance policy that meets the minimum coverage requirements in Texas ($30,000 for injuries to one person, $60,000 total for all persons in one accident, and $25,000 for property damage).
- A surety bond filed with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
- A deposit of $55,000 in cash or securities with the Comptroller of Public Accounts or the county judge.
- Self-insurance, which is an option for owners of 25 or more vehicles.
Punishment Range for a Violation
Dallas Ticket Defense Attorney
First Offense: This is a Class C misdemeanor. The punishment includes a fine ranging from $175 to $350, plus court costs.
Second or Subsequent Offense: A subsequent conviction is also a Class C misdemeanor but carries a higher fine, ranging from $350 to $1,000, plus court costs. Additionally, a second or subsequent conviction can lead to the suspension of your driver’s license until you provide proof of financial responsibility for a period of two years from the date of the subsequent conviction. The court may also order the impoundment of your vehicle for up to 180 days, with the owner responsible for towing and storage fees.
Protect Your Driving Record with Beltz Law Group
If you’ve received a ticket for Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility in North Texas, it’s crucial to take it seriously. Don’t let a “no insurance” ticket lead to a conviction and potential driver license suspension. The experienced attorneys at Beltz Law Group are here to help.
Beltz Law Group is a premier ticket defense firm serving the North Texas area. We understand the complexities of traffic law and have a proven track record of successfully defending clients against a variety of traffic violations, including Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility.
Lawyers That Help With Suspended Driver Licenses in Dallas
Our dedicated team will work diligently to explore all available legal options to keep this violation off your record. We can help you:
- Understand your legal rights and options.
- Negotiate with prosecutors to potentially reduce or dismiss the charges.
- Represent you in court, protecting your interests every step of the way.
- Work towards preventing a conviction and the associated driver license suspension and insurance increases.
Don’t face this ticket alone. Contact Beltz Law Group today for a consultation and let us put our expertise to work for you.
Call us today to discuss your case!
214-321-4105
