Key points:
- All drivers in California must have liability insurance that covers 15/30/5.
- Minimum coverage only protects other people, not your injuries or damage to your car.
- You can choose to add collision, comprehensive, uninsured motorist, and medical payments to your policy.
- You must show proof of insurance when you get pulled over, get into an accident, or register your vehicle.
- SoCal Insurance has plans for California drivers that are both cheap and legal.
In California, it’s not just a good idea to have auto insurance; it’s the law. To make sure that drivers are safe and responsible with their money on the road, the state has strict rules. The California Department of Insurance says that anyone who is caught driving without insurance could get a ticket, have their licence suspended, or even have their auto taken away.
This blog will tell you exactly what kind of coverage you need for auto insurance in California, what optional coverages can give you better protection, and how to choose the best policy for your needs.
What do you need to have in California to get auto insurance?
Liability insurance is the minimum amount of coverage that California requires. This kind of insurance is meant to cover the costs of injuries or damage to other people’s property that you cause in an accident. The law says you must do the following:
- $15,000 for one person’s death or injury
- $30,000 for injury or death to more than one person
- $5,000 for damage to property
People often call this 15/30/5 coverage. It’s important to know that this coverage only protects other people, not you. Liability insurance won’t pay for your costs if your auto is damaged or you get hurt.
What other types of coverage should you think about?
A lot of drivers in California choose to add extra protection to their policy, even though it’s not required by law. Collision coverage is a common choice that helps pay for damage to your auto after an accident, even if you were at fault. Your lender will probably want you to have this coverage if you lease or finance your car.
Comprehensive coverage is another valuable addition because it protects your auto from damage caused by things other than accidents. This includes things like theft, vandalism, fire, natural disasters, and things that fall. Because California has so many wildfires and earthquakes, this coverage is often suggested.
It’s also a good idea to have coverage for uninsured or underinsured drivers. If you get hit by a driver who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough of it, it can help pay for your medical bills or repairs. This extra protection is invaluable because there are a lot of drivers in California who don’t have insurance.
Lastly, if you or your passengers are hurt in an accident, medical payments coverage can help pay for hospital bills. This is true no matter who was to blame.
Do You Have to Show Proof of Insurance?
Yes, you need to be able to show proof of auto insurance when you register your car, when you’re pulled over, or if you’re in an accident. Most of the time, insurance companies give you a card in the mail, but California also accepts proof on your phone.
If you don’t have proof of insurance when asked, even if you do have insurance, you could get fines and other problems. It’s best to always have your proof on hand, whether it’s in your glove compartment or saved on your computer.
What Happens If You Drive Without Insurance in California?
If you drive in California without insurance, you could face serious problems. People who break the law for the first time may have to pay a base fine of $100, but the total cost can go up a lot after court fees and other fines. They could take your car and suspend your licence.
If you’re in an accident and don’t have insurance, you could have to pay thousands of dollars in damages or injuries, which is even more critical. It might also be hard to find cheap coverage later on, since insurance companies often charge more for people who have gaps in coverage.
Getting the Right Auto Insurance in California Matters
Meeting It is essential to meet California’s minimum insurance requirements, but having just the bare minimum may not be enough to protect you. Collision, comprehensive, and uninsured motorist coverage are all optional types of coverage that can help you avoid money problems after an accident or other unexpected event.
Work with a trusted provider like SoCal Insurance to make sure you are both legally and financially protected. They make it simple to look at different policies and choose one that works for your needs, way of life, and budget. Go to their auto insurance page right now to see what you can do.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What kind of insurance do I need in California?
You need at least 15/30/5 liability coverage. This means that you need $15,000 for one person’s injury, $30,000 for more than one person’s injury, and $5,000 for damage to property.
2. Can I show proof of insurance on my phone?
Yes, California lets drivers show proof of insurance on their smartphones.
3. Do you have to have full coverage in California?
No, the law only requires liability insurance. Complete coverage is not required, but it is often suggested for newer cars.
4. What will happen if I don’t have insurance?
If you drive without insurance, you could get a ticket, lose your licence, or have your car towed. It can also make insurance more expensive in the future.
5. How do I get the best rates?
Get quotes from different companies and think about working with local agencies like SoCal Insurance to get personalised help and find out about discounts that are available.
