California Car Insurance
California car insurance is one of the most important things you need as a CA resident when you own a vehicle, and finding it in California it can be a daunting task. Some metropolitan areas have inflated premiums because they are at higher risk of theft and other unfortunate occurrences. It’s important to shop around to find the best deal for your needs, while still keeping it affordable. Always remember that it’s your insurance, and you can tailor it to your budget and specific needs and concerns.
California Car Insurance Issues
In California, there are some things you have to worry about in certain areas more than others. Earthquakes, for example, can destroy or severely damage your vehicle, and there isn’t anything that can be done to prevent it. If you live in an earthquake-prone area, you may want to invest in disaster coverage; just be sure to read all the terms of the coverage. On the other hand you may deem earthquakes infrequent enough to not warrant extra money per month.
Even unlicensed drivers in this state can get an insurance policy to cover them, though it is always better to have a license. Through this method, illegal immigrants and tourists, among other special cases, are able to have car insurance. It’s better to have insurance than to get into an accident without it. This type of insurance policy doesn’t cover the incidence of having your car impounded or fined if you are caught without a license by the police. The premiums on these policies are also higher due to the lack of a driving record.
Another concern, specifically in the more metropolitan areas, is car theft. People worry about their cars being stolen or broken into, and insurance companies will cover theft. The specific coverage will differ from company to company, but overall there will be certain things that are the same. Specific makes and models of cars bring a higher premium due to being ‘high risk’, and this list can change from time to time, so it’s always good to check with your insurance provider every so often. They likely have a list of the most commonly stolen vehicles.
Tips for Finding California Auto Insurance
Even without the specific possibilities listed above, you want to have a minimum amount of insurance to cover your assets when an accident occurs. Not to mention, it’s illegal to drive without insurance, and you can be jailed if you are caught. Sometimes, you can just end up a victim of circumstance and you might need to make small repairs due to outside forces. Your insurance is there to assist with that, and you can choose what you want to or don’t want to cover.
The most important thing to remember is to shop around. Getting a variety of quotes will insure that you are paying a reasonable rate for this protection.
There are some companies out there that can roll auto, homeowners, boat, property, and all sorts of other insurance all into one payment; and, that can end up being less costly than paying for them all separately. It’s also important to check in with your insurer when you get a new car, or are thinking about it, to make sure your insurance doesn’t change too much.
California Car Insurance Requirements
To be lawfully insured in California you need to have $15/30/5 in liability coverage. This means that $15,000 covers injuries or death of one person, $30,000 covers injury or death of multiple people and $5,000 covers property damage if you are in an accident that is your fault. You can get more coverage, and that comes with certain plans, but to not be fined, this is the basic coverage you need. All California insurance companies offer this type of minimum plan. If you can afford more coverage, ideally in a 100/300/100 ratio, most insurance experts say you should be well covered in most situations.
How to Save on California Car Insurance Premiums
One of the most important actions a consumer can take is to be aware of your option by shopping around, and getting quotes from a variety of providers. Take a look at factors that can influence your insurance company’s premiums. These are things like location, car make and model, the economy, your age, and available discounts.
Of course, you can also get discounts by installing anti-theft devices like wheel-locks, etchings, tracking devices and car alarms. These are an excellent idea in an area with a higher rate of crime. If you add any of these devices after you have a policy in effect, call your insurer and ask if you get a discount at that time.
Keeping in touch with your insurer when life changes like relocations or job changes occur can also impact your rates if you find you are driving less than you used to. If teen drivers leave home, or you reach senior citizen age you can also get reduced premiums.
By using the free quote tool on this page, you can just click and receive the rate quotes you need today. Being an active participant in you search is truly the best way to custom make an auto insurance plan that is ideal for your life and needs. Compare California car insurance rates today!