Is auto insurance required in California?

Posted on by agentinsure

Sunny days and cool nights seem to be a signature for California life. There is, however, more to the state than beautiful beaches and picturesque mountains. California is home to thousands of drivers and, thus, has one of the highest records for accidents in the country.

With the probability of you having at least a fender-bender while driving in Newport Beach, CA fairly high, it is important that you understand the basics of auto insurance.  Do you really need car assurance if you live in California, though? The agents at Murvay Insurance can help you sort things out.

California auto insurance requirements

The state of California requires all drivers to furnish proof of financial responsibility. Most auto owners choose to purchase an indemnity policy that satisfies the minimum requirements in the state.

You need the following to legally drive in Newport Beach CA and throughout the region:

  • At least $15,000 per person for bodily injury. A minimum of $30,000 is required per accident for bodily injury.

  • A minimum of $5,000 per accident for property damage.

  • Uninsured motorist coverage for at least $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident, at a minimum.

Of course, you would likely want to purchase a policy that exceeds the state’s minimums as one at-fault accident in California can lead to damages that far exceed the $5,000 minimum coverage for property damage and $15,000 per person for bodily injury.

Is auto insurance the only way to prove financial responsibility?

Many assume that California requires auto insurance because such is the way that many drivers go. In reality, individuals who furnish proof of a cash deposit of at least $35,000 with the department of motor vehicles (DMV) is an acceptable form of financial responsibility. Still, a cash certificate does not exempt you from a lawsuit if the damages that you can exceed $35,000.

The agents at Murvay Insurance can help you find the auto insurance policy that works best with your lifestyle. Call them today for a quote!