When it comes to auto insurance in California, knowing the facts is essential. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor in the Golden State, having the right car insurance coverage is not just a legal requirement but also crucial for financial protection. Global Guard Insurance is here to provide you with valuable insights and help you discover affordable car insurance options near you.
With more than 35 million registered vehicles, California has one of the largest numbers of automobiles in the United States.Frequent Traffic Incidents: In 2019, there was a traffic crash in California every three minutes, highlighting the importance of being adequately insured.Urban Accident Hotspots: A significant 77 percent of all accidents in California occur in urban areas, underscoring the need for comprehensive car insurance.
U.S. Highway 431 is considered the deadliest highway in California, emphasizing the importance of reliable auto insurance coverage.
Understanding the cost of car insurance is crucial for budget planning. In California, the average cost of the state-required minimum liability car insurance is approximately $469 per year. However, if you opt for full coverage auto insurance, which provides broader protection, the average cost rises to around $1,623 per year.
It’s important to note that these are average costs, and your specific car insurance premium can vary based on factors such as your driving record, age, and zip code. Your insurance premium is customized to suit your individual circumstances
Full coverage car insurance, while not mandated by state law, is often preferred by drivers who seek comprehensive protection. On average, full coverage in California costs approximately $135 per month. This type of insurance extends beyond liability coverage to include collision and comprehensive coverage, which help pay for your own losses in an accident.
If you’re looking for the most affordable car insurance option, consider the minimum required liability insurance, which costs around $39 per month on average. This basic coverage includes bodily injury and property damage liability insurance, protecting you from claims filed by other people if you are at fault in an accident.
While minimum coverage may be enticing due to its affordability, it’s essential to remember that it could leave you financially exposed in major accidents. In such cases, you would be responsible for damages exceeding your policy limits, potentially leading to significant out-of-pocket expenses.
Considering the rising costs of vehicle repairs and medical bills, it’s wise to explore additional car insurance coverage options beyond liability insurance:
MedPay covers your medical expenses resulting from a vehicle accident, regardless of fault. It's a "no-fault" insurance, meaning benefits are available even if you caused the accident.
UIM insurance pays your bills when you're injured by another driver who lacks insurance coverage or doesn't have enough to cover all the expenses.
California offers various discounts for responsible drivers, helping you lower your car insurance costs. Some of these discounts include:
Exploring these discounts and discussing them with an insurance agent can help you secure a cost-effective car insurance policy that suits your budget
Understanding California’s car insurance laws is crucial to ensure compliance and avoid potential consequences. Some key aspects of car insurance laws in California include:
Mandatory Liability Insurance: California law requires a minimum level of liability insurance coverage for all drivers. You must carry at least:
Driving without insurance in California is taken seriously. Even first-time offenders may face severe consequences, including fines and vehicle registration suspension. Insurance companies are required to report new policies and policy lapses to the state electronically in real-time.
In California, you are required to report accidents to the police under specific circumstances. Accidents involving bodily injuries or significant property damage must be reported immediately. Accidents with minor property damage do not require police reporting but should be reported to your insurance company.
Insurance companies in California consider various factors when setting premiums. These factors may include marital status, age, gender, credit history, and driving record. Maintaining a clean driving record can help lower your insurance premiums.
Having a DUI conviction on your record in California does not necessarily disqualify you from obtaining cheap car insurance. However, individuals with DUIs should expect higher premiums and obtaining an SR-22 certificate . Contrary to popular opinion, an SR-22 is not a type of insurance policy offered to individuals convicted of DUI. Instead, an SR-22 is a certification issued by an insurance company. This certification guarantees that liability insurance will be available for the high-risk driver in question. Shopping around and discussing your options with an insurance agent can help you find affordable coverage.
California is known for its vibrant car culture, and having proper car insurance is essential for safe and responsible driving in this beautiful state. Freeway Insurance is here to assist you in finding the right coverage that fits your needs and budget.
Ready to get started? You can obtain a free car insurance quote online today, locate an agent at a California office near you, or call us at (800) 750-9115