Uninsured drivers are a serious danger on the road. Even when a small accident occurs there is no safety net to make sure that car repairs are paid for and that medical bills are covered. Car accidents with uninsured drivers routinely result in tiresome lawsuits in order for the victim to recover money for damages.
For this reason, some Texas cities are taking action against uninsured drivers. Starting in about a month, Lubbock police will be able to stop uninsured drivers in their tracks. A new city ordinance will allow police to impound any vehicle if they find that the driver does not have insurance.
If a driver is stopped and he can't provide proof of insurance, police will check a statewide database to determine whether or not he is covered. If he is found to be driving around without insurance, police will immediately impound the vehicle.
The goal is make drivers realize that paying for insurance coverage is cheaper than going without it. Court fees, fines, and impound fees will incentivize drivers to get insurance coverage - hopefully before they find themselves in a car accident.
This ordinance has been implemented in other Texas cities already. It is unclear if it will result in fewer uninsured drivers in Lubbock, but it will certainly send a clear message. Auto insurance isn't optional, and you can't afford to leave home without it.