Auto Insurance in California

In each state, regulators set a minimum level of liability insurance vehicle owners must carry in order to drive.

Liability

In California, the minimums you need to carry are:

• 15,000 Bodily Injury Liability (Per Person)
• $30,000 Bodily Injury Liability (Per Accident)
• $5,000 Property Damage Liability (Per Accident)

You may hear this called 15/30/5 coverage. This liability coverage helps to pay for injuries or property damage bills if you are found at fault in an accident. It’s the minimum, however, and may not cover the cost of damage you do. You have the option to increase coverages.

Liability alone does not cover the cost of your car, though, in an accident. For that, you'll need collision insurance.

Collision & Comprehensive

Collision insurance covers damage to your vehicle when you are in an accident. Regardless of who is at fault, you pay the deductible and the insurance covers the remaining costs up to your policy limits.

Comprehensive covers damage from something other than an auto accident. Coverage may include fire, theft, vandalism, hail damage, or floods. The details of exactly what is covered will be detailed in your policy.

Other Coverage

Experts highly recommend Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist coverage. While not required by law in California, it helps cover your costs if you are injured by a driver without insurance, or insurance that is insufficient.

In addition, a higher deductible will mean a smaller payment. If something happens though, your out-of-pocket costs will be higher.

Bayshield Insurance Services in San Jose, CA

We can help create a custom auto insurance policy to fit your needs. While you must meet state minimum requirements, there may be reasons you need higher, or different, levels of coverage.

Contact Bayshield Insurance Services by calling us at 888-234-8445 or drop by our location in San Jose, CA. You can also use our handy online rating tool for home and auto insurance.