Minimum Car Insurance In California
Minimum Car Insurance In California
What is Minimum Car Insurance?
Minimum car insurance is a type of insurance coverage that meets or exceeds the minimum requirements for coverage set by a state. Every state has different requirements for minimum car insurance, so it’s important to know what’s required in your state. In California, the minimum insurance requirements are $15,000 for property damage, $30,000 for bodily injury per person, and $60,000 for bodily injury per accident. This is commonly referred to as 15/30/60 coverage.
What Does Minimum Car Insurance Cover?
Minimum car insurance in California covers bodily injury and property damage for the other party in an accident. It does not cover any damage to the driver’s own vehicle or medical costs for the driver or passengers in their vehicle. It also does not cover any costs related to an uninsured motorist. In order to get coverage for these additional costs, drivers must purchase additional coverage.
How Much Does Minimum Car Insurance Cost?
The cost of minimum car insurance in California will vary depending on several factors, such as age, driving record, and type of vehicle. Generally speaking, drivers can expect to pay around $250 per year for minimum car insurance. However, drivers with a poor driving record and drivers who drive expensive, high-powered vehicles may pay much more for coverage.
What Are the Penalties for Not Having Car Insurance in California?
Driving without insurance in California is illegal and drivers may face serious penalties if they are caught. Drivers caught without insurance can be fined up to $500 and their driver’s license and registration may be suspended. They may also have to pay additional fees to have their license and registration reinstated. In some cases, drivers may even face jail time.
What Are the Benefits of Purchasing More Than Minimum Car Insurance?
Although minimum car insurance is necessary to comply with the law, it does not provide drivers with very much coverage. Purchasing additional coverage, such as comprehensive and collision coverage, can provide drivers with much more protection in the event of an accident. This additional coverage can help to cover the cost of damages to their own vehicle as well as medical expenses for themselves and their passengers.
Conclusion
Minimum car insurance is an important type of coverage to have in California. Drivers must purchase a minimum amount of coverage in order to comply with the law and avoid penalties. However, it is important to note that minimum car insurance only covers the other party in an accident, not the driver’s own vehicle or medical expenses. Purchasing additional coverage can provide drivers with more protection and peace of mind.