Reader’s Question:

What would the penalty be if I drive alone in the state of Virginia with just a learner’s permit?

Alan

Thank you for asking, Alan.

According to the Virginia driver’s manual, a minor may only be permitted to drive if he is accompanied by a a licensed driver of at least 21 years of age. A driver accompanying you may be 18 years of age if if she or he is your legal guardian.

Your legal guardian accompanying you and monitoring your ability to drive a vehicle must be legally permitted to drive and holds a valid driver’s license.

It is worth 3 points in Virginia and would stay on your driving record for 3 years for the learner’s permit violation.

According to Virginia state law, a Class 2 misdemeanor may have a penalty of confinement to jail for up to six months and a fine of $1000.

You will need to contact the court in the ticket that you received to verify and check what the penalties you would be facing. You may also get an advised from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles regarding the penalties associated with the violation.

Goodluck!

MariCAR

Reader’s Question:

Im a minor. Do I need to have an insurance if I only have a motorcycle permit? I live in Minnesota.

Molly

Nice Question, Molly.

This would actually depend on the state law if you will need to obtain an insurance at this point or wait till you are fully licensed for the motorcycle.

The Office of Traffic Safety in Minnesota notes that all motorcyclists must do the following:

1. needs to have a motorcycle instruction permit or an endorsement
2. register the motorcycle and display the valid license plate
3. carry the liability insurance on their motorcycle and proof of insurance when riding.
4. wear eye protection

So if you are under 18 years of age you must:

1. complete an approved motorcycle rider training course
2. wear a DOT approved helmet

If you are a teen, you will need to contact an insurance agent to know more about when you can be added in your parent’s policy. Some insurance company allow teens to be added the same day she receives the learner’s permit. Other companies require the addition once the teen obtains full or unrestricted license.

You may contact the Department of Motor Vehicle to find out what requires you to have an insurance with a motorcycle permit.

Goodluck!

MariCAR

Reader’s Question:

Should I get my daughter a non owners policy since she does not own a vehicle? She just got her driver’s license.

Linda

Good Question, Linda.

Generally, it is actually much cheaper if you add her to your insurance policy rather than getting a separate insurance for her. You may be able to get a discount from your insurance company for multi-policy if she will be driving her own car.

As soon as your teenager begins to operate a vehicle, you will need to notify your insurance company that you will add her as an additional driver in the household. Since teenagers are inexperienced in driving, you will notice a higher premium on your insurance, since according to statistics, they tend to get involve in an accident.

You may expect your insurance rate to go up as much as 50% if you add a teenager in you policy. A son however will increase a premiums for as much as 100%. You may consider increasing your liability limits for additional protection.

Please note that some non owners policies do not cover vehicles that are owned by a member of the same household.

Goodluck!

MariCAR