What is the penalty for driving without insurance in North Carolina?

Driving without insurance in North Carolina carries a penalty that typically involves a fine ranging between $100 and $500. This range reflects the seriousness of driving without the legally required coverage, as North Carolina mandates that all drivers must have liability insurance to help cover costs associated with accidents. The fine is designed to discourage drivers from operating vehicles without insurance and to promote responsible driving behavior within the state.

In addition to the monetary fine, North Carolina also places significant emphasis on maintaining proper auto insurance, recognizing the potential financial risks to both drivers and other road users in the event of an accident. The structure of fines serves not only as a deterrent but also as a means to encourage compliance with state insurance laws.

The other penalties mentioned, such as potential jail time, points on the driving record, or a lower fine, do not typically apply to the offense of driving without insurance itself in this context. While there may be additional consequences for repeated offenses or circumstances that exacerbate the situation, the specified range of fines is the primary penalty for this particular violation.