California freewayThe Golden State is one of the many states that enforces the financial responsibility law. This basically means that all drivers who operate a motor vehicle must carry an active liability policy at all times; California car insurance is also needed in order to register and maintain registration for automobiles. This law is put in to force with the intention of ensuring that motorists have a way to compensate others in the event of an accident where they are at fault and found liable for causing bodily injuries and/or property damage as a result. The law is also in effect to help keep uninsured drivers off of the roads as well.

Although drivers are legally responsible for carrying liability coverage at all times, the limits required by the state are quite low compared to other states and may not be enough to cover the cost of medical care and vehicle repairs. With these low limits, one may find themselves in a very tough spot financially if they cause damage above and beyond the state’s minimum requirements because they may be held accountable for the remaining compensation due to the other party. For this very reason, Californians should consider purchasing additional protection.

Additional California Auto Insurance to Consider

First and foremost, consumers should consider raising their liability limits. According to state law, motorists are only required to carry liability coverage in the amount of $15,000 for bodily injury for one person, $30,000 for bodily injury per accident and $5,000 for property damage (this is commonly abbreviated as 15/30/5). Many industry professionals suggest raising limits to 100/300/50 in order to help prevent individuals from getting stuck with big medical and/or vehicle repair bills after an accident that they are found to have caused. Although this may sound like it could cause a big spike in premiums, by shopping around one may be able to find an affordable California auto insurance company and it may be worth the extra premium paid following an at-fault accident.

In addition, studies show that a little over approximately 18% of Californians drive uninsured. That means nearly 1 in 5 who occupy the roadways are not covered. In order to protect themselves from these motorists one should consider purchasing Uninsured Motorist coverage. This will cover the insured in the event that they are struck by a driver who is operating a vehicle illegally without a policy, are hit by a driver who is underinsured or if victim of a hit-and-run. Considering the amount of drivers who are not insured, this type of coverage can be quite beneficial.

Traffic accidents are a big deal and one should take the time to understand their responsibilities following a collision. The State Bar of California provides helpful information and a checklist that can be printed out for residents to refer to in the unfortunate event that they are in involved in an accident.