What Wisconsin drivers need to know about the new mandatory auto insurance law that took effect on June 1, 2010...

#1. Law enforcement officers may not stop vehicles solely to determine whether the Driver has auto insurance. Law enforcement officers performing a traffic stop or investigating an accident can ask for proof of insurance.

#2. Car not driver must be insured

#3. Penalties:

• failure to carry proof of insurance: Forfeiture of $10; no demerit points
• operating without insurance: $114 in Milwaukee municipal court; $200.50 in circuit Court; no demerit points. (Can be up to $500 in other parts of the state)
• providing fraudulent proof of Insurance: forfeiture of up to $5,000; no demerit points.
• to have your car removed from a tow lot will require proof of auto insurance

#4. Pay your fine on time if fined for driving without insurance or it can lead to 2 year driving suspension

#5. Required coverage (note: sr-22 Insurance complies with the law):

• liability: minimum limits of $50,000/$100,000/$15,000
• uninsured motorist: minimum limits of $100,000/$300,000
• underinsured motorist: minimum limits of $100,000/$300,000
• medical payments: minimum limits of $10,000 (you do not have to have this coverage)

#6. Auto insurance coverage is available without driver’s license or suspended driver’s license. Please contact individual auto insurance companies for details.

#7. Contact 1-800- 236-8517 - Office of the Commissioner of Insurance - if you need to confirm an insurance company is legitimate. Spanish language is available.