Insuring Your Vehicle in California

Living in California, you’ll find a vehicle is a must because everything is so far away from each other. If you decided to take a trip across the Valley into the Sierras -- or just get across town -- you must have a vehicle. Since a car is a must, the state says that you have to have auto insurance to operate your vehicle.

The law in California requires every registered vehicle be insured, no matter who is driving. It can be a friend, a son, a daughter, or any family member -- in California it does not matter who operates your vehicle. You must a insurance policy along with your insurance card for proof of insurance.

The minimum the state requires you to carry is $15,000 for bodily injury for one person and $30,000 to cover all others in the accident, along with a minimum of $5,000 for property damage. Keep in mind that the amount you choose to carry is the amount your insurance policy will pay up to in the event of an accident. The property damage coverage will pay for damage done to the car you hit.

All the insurance companies in California are required by the state to offer uninsured coverage as well as underinsured drivers. This is in the event the person who hit you does not carry any insurance themselves or not enough insurance to coverage the expenses of the damage done to your vehicle.

You also have the choice to add collision coverage that will help pay for damages to your vehicle if you are at fault and comprehensive coverage that will pay for damages to your vehicle if it is a non-accident-related wreck. Both of these are sold with a deductible attached but keep in mind it is in your best interest to have the higher deductible if you can afford it. In the event of an accident, the higher your deductible the less out-of-pocket expense you will endure and the lower your premium cost a great deal.

There is also coverage for towing you can purchase along with your policy that will pay to have your vehicle towed from the scene of the accident. You will also be offered a coverage for a rental car in the event you need one while your car is being repaired.

When purchasing California auto insurance, it is important to remember to compare all your choices and options before making your final choice. You want to make sure you completely understand your policy and the coverage you purchase.