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Car Insurance in California

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If you drive a vehicle in California, you need to have auto insurance that meets the state's minimum requirements. According to the California Insurance Code §11580.1b, these are:


  • $15,000 for bodily injury or death of one person in an accident;
  • $30,000 for bodily injury or death of more than one person in an accident; and 
  • $5,000 for property damage in an accident.


The average cost of this basic liability coverage (also called 15/30/5) is around $400 to $800. However, this amount can vary significantly depending on the type of vehicle you drive, your driving record, and other factors.


It’s important to note that basic liability coverage will not cover any property damage or medical costs related to an accident that you cause—which is why many people opt for additional coverage like collision or comprehensive, uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, and medical payments coverage.


We are a Trusted Car Insurance Agency in California


Many California drivers choose Western Insurance Marketing Corporation for all their automobile insurance needs. We provide friendly service, competitive rates, and a wide variety of options to customize your coverage.


Our experienced agents can help you find the right combination of auto insurance policies that meet your needs while still fitting within your budget. We also offer convenient payment plans and discounts for good drivers, multi-car policies, and more.


To learn more about our automobile insurance policies or to get a free quote, contact us today! 


We’re here to help you protect your car and your wallet.

How Does Automobile Insurance Work in California?


The main reason to have automobile insurance in California is to protect yourself from financial losses in case of an accident. California is a fault-based state, which means that the driver who causes an accident is responsible for paying the damages to the other parties involved. If you are at fault, you may have to pay for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering of the other drivers, passengers, or pedestrians. Without adequate insurance coverage, you may face lawsuits and bankruptcy.


Automobile insurance in California is regulated by the Department of Insurance and the Department of Motor Vehicles. You must provide proof of insurance when you register your vehicle, renew your registration, or are involved in an accident. If you fail to maintain insurance or provide proof of insurance, you may face fines, suspension of your license and registration, and impoundment of your vehicle.

Forms of California Car Insurance Coverage


There are different types of automobile insurance coverage available in California, and each one has its own benefits and limitations. Here are some of the most common forms of coverage and what they cover:


Liability Coverage


As mentioned above, this is the minimum coverage required by law in California. It covers the damages and injuries that you cause to other people or their property in an accident. It does not cover your own damages or injuries. The minimum liability limits in California are $15,000 for bodily injury per person, $30,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $5,000 for property damage per accident.


Collision Coverage


Collision coverage pays for the damages to your own car in an accident, regardless of who is at fault. It may also cover the cost of towing and rental car expenses. You usually have to pay a deductible before the coverage kicks in. The amount of the deductible depends on your policy and your preferences.


Comprehensive Coverage


Also known as "other than collision," comprehensive coverage pays for damages to your car caused by something other than an accident, such as fire, theft, vandalism, weather events, and animal collisions. It may also cover the cost of towing and rental car expenses. You usually have to pay a deductible before the coverage kicks in. The amount of the deductible depends on your policy and your preferences.


Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage


This covers the damages and injuries that you or your passengers suffer in an accident caused by a driver who has no insurance or not enough insurance to cover your losses. It may also cover the damages and injuries caused by a hit-and-run driver. You can choose the amount of coverage you want, up to the limits of your own liability coverage.


Medical Payments Coverage 


The Medical Payments Coverage takes care of the medical expenses for both you and your passengers if you get involved in an accident, without considering who was responsible for the accident. Besides, it may also cover funeral expenses and lost wages. You have the option to pick the amount of coverage you desire, which generally ranges from $1,000 to $10,000 per person.


Gap Coverage


Gap coverage pays for the difference between the actual cash value of your car and what you owe on your loan or lease in case it is totalled in an accident. It may also cover the cost of a down payment for a replacement car. A gap coverage policy is often required by the lender if you buy a car with an auto loan.


Rental Car Insurance


Rental car insurance covers the cost of a rental car while your car is being repaired or replaced after an accident. It may also cover towing and storage fees, as well as the cost of a replacement car if your car is totalled.


Roadside Assistance


This covers the cost of emergency services, such as towing and jump-starts, when you are stranded on the side of the road due to a mechanical failure or an accident. It may also cover the cost of emergency repairs, such as changing a flat tire or replacing a broken fan belt.

How Much Does California Car Insurance Cost?


The average comprehensive auto insurance cost in California is $2,115 per year. However, this amount may vary depending on several factors that affect your premiums, such as:


  • Your age and driving experience
  • Your driving record and history of claims
  • Your vehicle make, model and year
  • Your coverage level and deductible amount
  • Your credit score and insurance history
  • Your location and annual mileage
  • Your marital status and gender


By comparing quotes from different insurers and adjusting your coverage options, you may be able to find cheaper car insurance rates in California that suit your needs and budget.

How Marital Status Affects Car Insurance Rates in California


Did you know that your marital status can make a difference in how much you pay for car insurance in California? Married drivers enjoy a lower average annual premium than single drivers. This is because married drivers tend to split the driving responsibilities with their spouses, which means they drive less and have a lower chance of getting into accidents. Here are the average annual rates for car insurance in California based on marital status.


Married: $1791


Widowed: $1816


Single: $1868


Divorced: $1868



Other factors that can affect your auto insurance rates include the type of car you drive, your credit score, and the amount of coverage you choose.

Ways to Get the Best Value Out of Your California Auto Insurance


  • Shop around for the best rates and coverage. Compare different companies and policies online or with an agent.
  • Choose a higher deductible. This means you will pay more out of pocket if you have a claim, but it will lower your premium.
  • Bundle your policies. If you have other types of insurance, such as home, renters, or life, you may get a discount if you buy them from the same company.
  • Drive safely and avoid tickets and accidents. Your driving record affects your insurance rate, so follow the traffic laws and drive defensively.
  • Take advantage of discounts. You may qualify for discounts based on your age, occupation, education, membership, or vehicle features.
  • Maintain good credit. Some insurers use your credit score as a factor in determining your rate, so pay your bills on time and check your credit report regularly.
  • Reduce your mileage. The less you drive, the less risk you pose to the insurer. You may get a lower rate if you drive less than a certain number of miles per year or use public transportation.
  • Choose a reliable and safe vehicle. The make, model, and year of your car affect your insurance rate. Cars that are more expensive, more likely to be stolen, or have higher repair costs will cost more to insure.
  • Review your policy periodically. Your insurance needs may change over time, so review your policy at least once a year and update it if necessary. You may be able to lower your rate by dropping unnecessary coverage or adjusting your limits.
  • Ask for help. If you have any questions or concerns about your policy, contact your agent or insurer. They can help you understand your coverage, file a claim, or resolve any issues.

Get The Best Rates on California Car Insurance


Here at Western Insurance Marketing Corporation, we are dedicated to helping you get the best rates on California car insurance.


We work with top-rated insurers in the state and can provide you with multiple quotes so you can compare and find the best deal. Our experienced agents will help you understand your coverage options, so you can make an informed decision on the best policy for you.


Contact us today to get started!

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