Mandatory car insurance

Mar 11, 2005
Contributor: Jason Peterson

JACKSON (AP) - Mississippians would have to show proof of insurance when they got a vehicle inspected, were stopped at a roadblock or bought a new car tag under a bill passed by the Senate on Tuesday.

Senators added the provision to a House bill that had required the Department of Public Safety to maintain a database of insured motorists. The Senate removed the database from its version of the bill.

Senate Insurance Committee Chairman Dean Kirby, R-Pearl, said 22 states have laws requiring motorists to show proof of insurance when they buy car tags. He said Mississippi and Tennessee are the only Southern states without a law.

Under current law, motorists who are stopped for speeding or some other infraction must show proof of insurance. Motorist face a $1,000 for failing to have insurance.


If they purchase insurance before their court date, the fine is $100. Under House and Senate versions of the bill, the fine would increase to $500.

People who buy or renew a car tag over the Internet or through the mail would not have to show proof of insurance, Kirby said.




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