What is the purpose of maintaining an insurance card in your vehicle?

Maintaining an insurance card in your vehicle serves the important purpose of providing proof of insurance. In many jurisdictions, drivers are legally required to carry this documentation to demonstrate that they have the necessary insurance coverage in case of an accident or traffic stop. When law enforcement officials request documentation during a traffic stop, presenting the insurance card confirms that the vehicle is insured, thereby satisfying legal requirements and avoiding potential penalties.

While other options may seem relevant, they do not directly align with the primary legal requirement associated with driving. For example, showing vehicle registration pertains to verifying that a vehicle is properly registered with the appropriate authorities, which is a separate component of vehicle ownership. Verifying the owner's identity generally requires different forms of identification, not just proof of insurance, and warranty status discussions are related to vehicle service and maintenance, not insurance verification. Thus, the insurance card's main function remains focused on confirming that the vehicle is insured.