1. Civil Liability: The injured bicyclist can pursue a civil lawsuit against you to recover damages for injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other losses resulting from the accident. Without car insurance, you will be personally responsible for paying any court-ordered damages, which can lead to significant financial hardship.
2. Legal Expenses: Defending yourself against a civil lawsuit without the backing of an insurance company can incur substantial legal costs, including attorney fees, court fees, investigation expenses, and expert witness fees.
3. Property Damage: If the accident also caused damage to the bicyclist's property, such as a damaged bike, you may be liable for the repair or replacement costs.
4. Criminal Charges: Depending on the jurisdiction and the severity of the accident, you may also face criminal charges such as reckless driving, endangerment, or vehicular assault. These charges can carry penalties such as fines, imprisonment, and a suspended or revoked driver's license.
5. Judgments and Liens: If a court finds you liable and orders you to pay damages, and you fail to comply with the judgment, the injured party may be able to obtain a judgment lien against your assets, such as your property or bank accounts. This lien can impact your ability to sell or dispose of those assets until the judgment is satisfied.
6. Loss of Driving Privileges: A severe accident involving an uninsured vehicle may prompt the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to suspend or revoke your driver's license. This can have a significant impact on your daily life, including your ability to get to work or school, and may prolong the legal and financial consequences of the accident.
It is essential to be financially prepared by obtaining car insurance before operating a vehicle on public roads. Car insurance not only provides financial protection in case of accidents but also covers other unforeseen incidents like theft, property damage, and even personal injury protection for the policyholder.
