The Nova Scotia government takes car insurance very seriously and it has enacted laws that impose stiff penalties on people who get behind the wheel without having coverage in place. All drivers must have insurance in place, and keep proof of coverage in their vehicle in case they are stopped by police or involved in an accident.
Drivers are required to show proof of insurance if asked to do so by a police officer. The insurance certificate should be kept in the vehicle at all times in case it is needed.
Getting caught driving without insurance carries a penalty of a $1,000 fine or 45 days in jail for a first offense. The second time around, a driver will be required to pay $2,000 or spend 90 days in jail. A person who is caught driving without coverage for a third time will need to pay $5,000 or spend 120 days in prison.
It’s important to make sure that a lapse in coverage does not take place, since it can lead to serious consequences. If you are planning to change insurance companies, make sure that you have your new policy in place before you cancel the existing one. Being without coverage, even for one day, puts you at risk for a criminal record, as well as the consequences listed above.