California Auto Insurance

What every driver should know

California is increasingly becoming one of America’s most populated states bringing into consideration the large number of motorists who ply the routes. It is for this reason that having at least car liability insurance is legally mandatory in this state, and not having one is bound to get any driver some severe penalties. Liability coverage will make certain that when an uninsured motorist crashes into another party’s vehicle, the damage inflicted to both the vehicle and the person is subsequently paid.


California auto insurance regulations states that the minimum coverage required by the state of California is $15,000 for the medical expenses of only one occupant (the driver) and $30,000 for cumulative medical expenses of all passengers in the vehicle including the driver. An additional $5,000 shall be allocated for the costs in repairing the vehicle and for other damages in property. This is the lowest possible rate that you can buy in the state of California and no driver is otherwise exempted from this regulation.


The at-fault driver is usually left to fend for his own expenses unless he has Collision coverage or Comprehensive coverage in his basic policy. These two policies are not required by the California auto insurance law. However, both are helpful in protecting the motorist from getting into a financial quandary should he be involved in a serious car accident, and therefore is highly recommended.

The Comprehensive insurance provides for losses associated with natural calamities such as blizzards, typhoons, earthquakes and tornadoes. It also covers for other damage related to theft, fire, vandalism, and passive objects. Moreover, it also pays for damage caused by animals on the road or other obstacles that caused the accident like snow or fallen trees.


In a nutshell, the comprehensive insurance pays for almost every other type of damage except that of collision.


The California Low Cost Auto Insurance Program (CLCA) is also available for motorists. It is specifically designed for low-income California resident drivers who cannot pay for auto insurance premiums in a private company, however only good drivers are eligible for this program. It provides affordable Liability Coverage in compliance with the minimum requirements of the California auto insurance regulation.

The CLCA is not subsidized by taxpayers. Rates in every county are adjusted every year so that the money collected on premiums will be enough to cover any loss in that specific county. Instalment options are as low as 15%, the balance payable in up to 6 months. There is a 25% additional charge for single male drivers between the ages 19-24 years old. To be eligible, you have to be at least 19 years of age, fit in the low-income category, meet the good driver standard, have an unrevoked driver’s license held for the last 3 years, and have a vehicle with a value of $20,000 or less.

If you are a resident of California, it is imperative that you get your California Auto Insurance today! Get some quotes, shop around and compare rates. Whatever you do, never consider opting out of this necessity because it could cost you in greater ways than you can ever imagine.