To maintain good-standing with the law, you must establish financial responsibility for your vehicle. Generally, with most drivers, this comes in the form of liability insurance.

Ways to Establish Financial Responsibility

Though liability insurance is the most common protection choice among Oklahoma drivers, it is not your only option for establishing financial responsibility. You can also:

• Cover yourself under the Oklahoma Assigned Risk Auto Plan.

• Make a cash deposit of $75,000 with the Department of Public Safety or an authorized state financial institution.

• Take out a self-insurance policy if you have 25 or more vehicles registered under your name.

• Obtain a bond issued by an authorized surety company.

Oklahoma Liability Insurance Requirements for Private Passenger Vehicles

If you decide on protecting yourself with liability coverage, here are the minimum amounts you must carry:

• $25,000―Injury or death of one person

• $50,000―Injury or death of two or more persons

• $25,000―For property damage

Remember, these are minimum requirements. You are allowed, if your budget allows, to protect yourself with additional types of coverage including towing and labor.

Before deciding on a carrier, take the time to compare quotes from a variety of insurance companies. This will better your chances of finding a policy that meets both your needs and budget. After deciding, your carrier will send you an insurance identification card which you must carry with you when behind the wheel.

Proof of Insurance and Financial Responsibility

Though the Department of Public Safety (DPS) maintains an online verification system, you will still need to provide one of the following if an officer stops you or you are involved in an accident:

• An insurance identification card supplied by your carrier.

• A certificate of deposit.

• A certificate of self-insurance.

• Proof of a surety bond.

• Proof of participating in the Oklahoma Assigned Risk Auto Plan.

Penalties for Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility

You'll face the following penalties if caught with no proof of insurance:

• A fine of up to $250.

• A possible jail sentence of up to 30 days.

• Suspension of your registration and license.

If you're facing penalties for not maintaining financial responsibility, contact the DPS at (405) 425-2424 and ask for details specific to your situation.