As in many other states in the U.S, auto insurance is mandatory in California. If you possess and operate a motor vehicle in the State of California, the law requires that you purchase auto insurance. This requirement can become complicated given the cost of auto insurance in the Sunshine state. California has some of the most expensive auto insurance rates in the US. So how would you go about getting affordable auto insurance in CA and save money?
Online search
One of the best ways of locating reasonably-priced auto insurance in California is to do a simple online search on websites such as www.marinaamezcuainsurance.com. Getting a quote is free and can be as easy as completing a simple online form. Here are some basic requirements before you can qualify for California Low-cost liability insurance:
You must meet a set of minimum requirements
Some basic information on insurance is worthwhile before you look for auto insurance in California. California law insists on three minimum coverages conveniently known as 15/30/15. For bodily injury the liability per individual is $15,000 and bodily injury liability per accident is $30,000. The property damage liability is fixed at $15,000. Indeed these minimums do not adequately cover the expenses that can occur in an accident. If it is established that you are at fault in a serious accident involving multiple parties and vehicles, the financial implications to you can be catastrophic.
It is advisable to spend a few more dollars and increase your liability coverage to reasonable levels. I recommend not less than 100/300/100.
Other Coverage to Consider in California
Since the official minimums take into account only liability coverage, the following coverage options should be considered as part of your overall protection.
Collision - Covers damages from collision to your car.
Comprehensive - Covers the damages to your car due to reasons other than collision (i.e. fire, theft, vandalism and natural causes).
Personal Injury Protection - Covers physical damages and death for you and your passengers.
Uninsured Motorist - In the event the accident is caused by a motorist with no insurance, this insurance takes care of damages to you and your vehicle.
Gap Insurance - Fulfills the bank's requirement, if your car is leased or financed. It covers the gap between the loan amount and market value of the vehicle. This is particularly important for new vehicles which can depreciate several thousand dollars the moment you drive them off the lot.
Saving Money with Auto Insurance in California
After you have ascertained your coverage requirements, the following cost reduction strategies should be considered. One basic consideration is: do not pay for coverage you do not need. If the annual premium for collision and comprehensive exceeds the market value of your car, you may be well advised to drop the collision and comprehensive portions.
Review your deductible. Raising your deductible can help you slash your monthly premiums. For instance, if you raised it to to $2,000, you can save up to 25% on your collision and comprehensive premiums. Research shows many drivers' deductibles are at least $1,000.
Your driving track record is also important to every insurance company. It is therefore imperative that you do your best to maintain a clean, untainted driving record. This can lower your premiums by almost 25%. You can also get discounts on other insurance benefits.
Where you live can also affect how much you pay. If you live in an area renowned for crime, your premiums will skyrocket. It's important to consider this factor next time you move.
The California Insurance Commission has approved pay-as-you-drive policies that would allow motorists to buy insurance by the mile. Supporters say pay-as-you-drive is a way to accurately link insurance cost with accident risk & to pass on savings to worthy drivers. After all, it doesn't make much sense for a driver who doesn't drive much to pay as much in premiums as one who commutes longer distances to work. The concept is also intended to provide incentive to use alternative forms transportation and thereby decrease traffic accidents and relieve air pollution and traffic congestion.
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