Find out what the minimum amount of liability car insurance you're required to carry in California. Every driver should know these things.
If you’re a driver in California you’re legally required to carry a minimum amount of insurance coverage. This requirement is consistent across moss states — with only the specific limits varying based on your region. If you get behind the wheel in the Golden State, you’re expected to have at least 15/30/5 in coverage. This article breaks down the exact law, stipulations, exemptions and other relevant details.
These limits are put in place to cover both the driver, and others on the road. The state wants to ensure that, should you get into an accident where you’re at fault, you have the appropriate funds to cover any damage you cause. The same protection is afforded to you. If someone gets into an accident with you and you sue them, insurance ensures you will see your payday.
Note that there is a difference between the minimum amount of coverage you’re required to carry and how much you SHOULD carry. We always advise readers to take stock of how much they can reasonably afford. You should a-ses your total a-sets and net worth and try to carry enough liability coverage to cover that. For example, if your total net worth is $100,000 see if you can comfortably afford $100,000 in liability coverage.
Why? Carrying on with the above example, imagine you only got $30,000 in coverage and you’re worth $100,000. If you get into an accident, get sued and the judge rules against you, you may be liable for more than $30,000. In that case, you’ll end up paying out of pocket. If a you carried more insurance, it could provide you more funds to pay your fines.
California law does allow you to get other minimum amounts of proof to demonstrate you can take on financial risk yourself. If you meet certain criteria, you can get away without having to pay for insurance. While allowable, we advise against doing so because, once again, it exposes your finances to a lawsuit.