WASHBURN, Maine — Local police are concerned the number of uninsured motorists appears to be on the rise.
“The Washburn Police Department is seeing a large increase in drivers that cannot produce proof of insurance. You must have proof of insurance in every vehicle you operate. The fine for failure to produce proof of insurance is $171,” said Chief Roy Guidry.
According to Guidry, if a person can provide proof when they return the ticket to the state of Maine, the ticket will be voided. “If you cannot produce proof you’re insured, then you have to pay the fine.”
It is state law that motorists must have insurance to operate a vehicle on Maine roads.
Guidry noted the need for insurance extends beyond repairing your own vehicle and could include covering the cost of property damage or injury to others.
“It is also not very wise to drive without insurance and risk a crash that causes extensive damage or personal injury to someone. You will be held responsible for the debt and it can be an enormous amount with the cost of vehicle repairs and medical care,” said Guidry.
The chief said it’s well worth the cost of insurance, when you consider how devastating an accident can be.
“It doesn’t take much to seriously injure someone. Medical care and repairing or replacing property can be quite expensive. Having insurance just makes good sense — and it’s the law,” he said.
Guidry extended warm wishes for a safe Christmas and New Year’s.
“Have a safe holiday season and drive with due regard for Maine’s winter roads,” said Guidry.
