California Auto Insurance

Drivers in California are required to have liability coverage and keep their proof of insurance in the car at all times in case they are pulled over by a police officer or involved an accident. They must also show evidence of coverage when registering a vehicle.

California minimum auto insurance

California drivers are required to have fairly low minimum coverage, in comparison with other states. They are required to carry the following amounts:

• Bodily Injury and Death: $15,000 to cover one person in any one accident, and $30,000 to cover all injuries
• Property Damages: $5,000

Drivers don't need to buy Uninsured Motorist coverage but if they choose to do so, then they will need to match at least the minimum amount for bodily injury requirement. California also has an electronic compulsory insurance program and an electronic reporting for SR-22 Certificates.

Penalties without California auto insurance

Drivers who can't show proof of insurance to an officer when they are stopped may be issued a citation with a fine.

If uninsured drivers are found at fault in an accident, the driver's license may be suspended for a period of one year, and drivers will be required to file an SR-22 certificate. This means that drivers will need to buy insurance and have their insurance company file the SR-22 form with the state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

Drivers also need to compensate any victims in the accident or they may lose their driving privilege, at the judgment of a court.

Auto insurance discounts for California drivers

California drivers can receive discounts on their insurance premiums for the many different reasons such as the following:

• Good grades for students
• Multiple insurance policies with the same insurance provider, such as homeowner's or rental insurance
• Mature drivers
• Vehicles being registered in safe neighborhoods

California Auto Insurance Laws

• Compulsory Liability Insurance Law (1975)
• Financial Responsibility Law (1949)