Why You Must Drive With Auto Insurance in CA
Driving without proper auto insurance in California has many consequences for drivers who choose not to comply with the law.
Like all states, California law requires all drivers to carry certain amounts of auto insurance. The purpose of auto insurance is to make sure that drivers can recover compensation when they are in an accident and sustain injuries. The auto insurance law is known as the financial responsibility law, which essentially means a policy proves that drivers can cover any damages or injuries they cause other drivers to incur. Failing to comply with the minimum auto insurance requirements has significant consequences for drivers.
Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements
Most drivers in California choose to show financial responsibility by purchasing an auto insurance policy. Under the law, drivers must carry the following amounts of insurance:
- $15,000 in bodily injury liability per person
- $30,000 in bodily injury liability for the entire accident
- $5,000 in property damage liability
Although most people show financial responsibility by carrying the above minimum amounts of insurance, there are other ways drivers can establish this. Other options include:
- Paying the Department of Motor Vehicles, a cash deposit of $35,000
- Obtaining a California surety bond in the amount of $35,000
- Providing a certificate of self-insurance to the Department of Motor Vehicles
California motorists must provide proof of insurance when they are pulled over or in an accident. A failure to have proof of insurance can result in fines, and a driver could be held personally liable for paying damages after a crash.
Other Types of Auto Insurance Coverage Available
While liability insurance is required by law in California, there are additional types of coverage that can also protect drivers. These are as follows:
- Uninsured motorist coverage: You are not required to purchase uninsured motorist coverage in California, but your insurance company is required to offer it. If you decline, you will have to sign a waiver. This type of coverage will protect you in the event that you are involved in a crash with a driver who did not carry the proper amounts of liability insurance.
- Medical payments coverage: This type of coverage will cover your medical expenses that are not covered under a different insurance policy.
- Roadside assistance coverage: Things can go wrong when you are out on the road. Roadside assistance will cover your towing expenses, locksmith services, and anything else you need.
- Physical damage coverage: Coverage for physical damage will provide compensation for any physical damage to your vehicle, regardless of who was at fault for a crash.
Our Car Accident Lawyers in Murrieta Can Help You Claim a Full Settlement
If you have been hurt in a crash, our Murrieta car accident lawyers at Gibbs & Fuerst can help you claim the full settlement from the insurance company you deserve. Call us now at 951-816-3435 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation and to learn more about how we can help with your claim.