Driving around California without insurance is illegal. The state’s Vehicle Code requires all car owners to show proof of financial responsibility when they register or renew their vehicle, are involved in a traffic accident, and are stopped by law enforcement authorities. One easy way to prove financial responsibility is by purchasing auto liability coverage.

Liability coverage pays for the injuries or damages to other people when they are involved in a collision you are legally liable for. It also covers legal costs when the aggrieved party sues you.

In California, the minimum liability coverage requirements set out by law are as follows:

Bodily injury liability – $15,000 for injuries/death of one person, $30,000 for injuries/death of more than one person in one accident

Property damage liability – $5,000 for damages you cause to another person’s car or property

Keep in mind that failing to carry auto insurance may lead to license suspension, fines, and the impoundment of your vehicle.

Additional Protection for Your Unique Needs

There are other types of coverage you may want to consider, depending on your needs. These include:

Uninsured motorist/underinsured motorist coverage

This is very helpful when you sustain injuries and the driver at fault either doesn’t have any insurance or doesn’t have adequate liability insurance to cover all your medical needs.

Medical payments coverage

If you and your companions are injured in an accident, this handles all your medical expenses, no matter who is at fault.

Physical damage coverage

This consists of collision insurance and comprehensive insurance. Collision reimburses the damage or loss of your car due to a collision with another car or an object such as a fence. Comprehensive pays for the damage or loss of your car due to incidents other than a collision (e.g., falling objects, theft, fire). These two are commonly offered as a package.

Extra Benefits for Further Peace of Mind

Having sufficient insurance coverage ensures peace of mind while you’re on the road. Some riders you may like to add to your policy are:

Rental reimbursement insurance to cover car rental if your car is undergoing repair following an accident.

Roadside assistance for help during road emergencies. Services include towing, fuel delivery, and vehicle removal, among others.

Extra equipment coverage to cover your vehicle’s custom wheels, navigation systems, CD players, and others.

GAP coverage

This covers the difference between the balance of your loan/lease and the market value of the vehicle should your loan be higher than the current vehicle value.  

Custom equipment

Most cars are capable of receiving updates to their operation or performance after the initial purchase.  These are post-purchase upgrades that need to be added to the policy to factor in the increase in value to the vehicle.  Without this your vehicle would be restored or valued with the original equipment and you would lose your upgrades.

Purchase California Auto Insurance

If you’re currently not covered or if you want to update your existing policy, we’re here to assist you. We cater to clients in the San Ramon, Dublin, Pleasanton, and Danville areas, as well as across the U.S. Connect with us online today.