In California you're financially responsible for the damage and injury you cause in an automobile accident. Liability protection insures you for these potential expenses, and is compulsory in California.
California minimum liability limits; $15,000 per person for injuries you cause to the other parties, $30,000 total per accident, and $5,000 for damage you cause to the other party's property. You can also post a surety bond of $35000, but based upon our experience (I actually called around), there aren't many companies offering these.
Non mandatory options include medical payments, blanket umbrella, collision, and comprehensive coverage. In California, 25 percent of all drivers are uninsured, so also consider uninsured (UI) and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage.
If you are convicted of DUI in California (Assuming your insurance company doesn't drop you immediately), your insurance costs will increase at least 30%. Buying insurance through a "high-risk" agency will cost substantially more.
If you are high risk (multiple tickets and/or accidents), you may have to get car insurance through the California Automobile Assigned Risk Plan. It was created to provide automobile insurance coverage to eligible risks who seek coverage and are unable to obtain such coverage through the voluntary market.
Below (again) are the minimal limits.
Proof of insurance is required when you register your car, to be kept at all times in vehicle, and especially at the time of an accident. Your insurer must notify Department of Motor Vehicles or other state agency of cancellation or nonrenewal. Your insurer must also submit entire list of insurance in effect, which may be compared with registrations at a state agency. The penalty for driving without insurance in California is a $100-$200 fine.
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