Auto Insurance Coverage and Protection in Accidents

Life in California requires a great pair of sunglasses and a love of sunshine, and it also requires a car. There are too many beautiful routes and destinations to live in the Golden State without a way to get around. That being said, once you invest in a car, you’ll also want to be sure you have the right type of car insurance. There are some particulars about CA car insurance requirements you’ll need to know from the get-go.

The Consequences of Driving Without Insurance

The consequences for driving without adequate insurance are serious. If you fail to maintain the right auto coverage, you face the possibility of a traffic citation, a hefty fine, and the loss of your vehicle to an impound. If you’re involved in an accident, you could be held financially responsible for the resulting costs, in addition to the financial penalties. Even if you have insurance and don’t have your card in your possession, you could face a heavy fine. If you don’t have insurance, you’ll pay increasingly expensive fines each time you are guilty of an offense.

Obtaining insurance is easy and convenient. Many insurance companies offer free quotes and are available for online arrangements. Good drivers may even be eligible for a discount.

Coverage You’ll Want in an Accident

As you consider your insurance options, don’t forget to consider the possibility of an auto accident. The minimum requirements for California car insurance coverage includes:

  • Bodily Injury Liability Coverage
  • Property Damage Liability Coverage
  • Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury Coverage
  • Uninsured Motorist Property Damage Coverage

Liability Insurance

Liability insurance provides the coverage you need if you’re in an accident and you are found to be liable for the damage. This coverage is for the cost of repairing property damages and medical bills. California, as with many states, has a minimum requirement, but you should consider getting additional coverage.

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage is for the repairs your car needs after a collision. If the damage to your car costs more than the value of the vehicle, this coverage will pay the value of your vehicle, as determined by the insurance company. Owners of older cars may not want to invest in collision coverage, but if your vehicle is fairly new, this type of coverage will help you pay for repairs or to get back into a car.

Personal Injury Protection

Personal Injury Protection is an important form of coverage this isn’t always required, but which may be a valuable addition, especially if you’re involved in an accident. This coverage can give you the confidence that your medical bills and the those of your passengers will be fully paid, no matter who is found to be at fault.

Uninsured Motorist Protection

Uninsured Motorist Protection is coverage that protects you financially when the other driver(s) involved in the accident didn’t carry car insurance. California requires this type of coverage and you don’t want to skimp on it. The cost of this insurance is inexpensive compared the amount of protection it provides.

After reviewing the California requirements concerning auto insurance, spend a few moments reviewing your personal preferences. You may find it is worth paying a little extra for additional peace of mind.

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