If you are moving to California, the first thing you will need to take care of is your auto insurance. The mandatory car insurance that is required for every vehicle in the state will give you the minimum financial assistance in case your car meets with an accident. Additionally, you will also require the comprehensive and collision insurance so that you are fully protected when your personal vehicle meets with an accident.
An uninsured vehicle can be impounded at any time by the authorities. In addition, significant fines could be slapped on the owner of such vehicles and, in the case of any accident involving the vehicle, the owner has to bear personal responsibility for the damages done. Minor consequences arising from any accident could easily chalk up thousands of dollars if the owner is not insured.
The Department of Motor Vehicles, California monitors the insurance companies through electronic links. As soon as the insurance cover has lapsed, the DMV gets notified automatically and the registration of the vehicle is immediately suspended. Any time the police, during their routine checking process, find any vehicle with suspended registration; they can impound the car on the spot.
Requirements for minimum coverage for car insurance in California are $5K for property damage, $15K for injury for one person and $30K for injury for more than one person. This does not include the injury to you or damage to your vehicle.
Since inflation has surpassed the requirements of coverage, in any accident therefore, this minimum requirement will not be able to cover the entire expenses involved. Adequate coverage has to be targeted, if you would like to travel in peace on the often crowded roads of California.
For your own protection in the event of being hit in an accident by an uninsured motorist, the Uninsured Motorist Coverage will be an added advantage. Since the other motorist is not insured on account of a suspended registration, he will most likely be unable to pay for the costs you incur for your damages and injuries. This coverage will provide you the necessary finance to cover the damage to your vehicle and your hospital costs if needed.
Another important insurance that may be very useful in the state of California is the Roadside Assistance. If for any reason, you are stranded on the road, this coverage provides you with assistance. It may be due to running out of gas, or a flat tire, or any disability when on the road, you can call for help. The insurance company will provide you with a driver who will tow the car to the nearest authorized repair shop.
Various insurance providers charge differently for similar coverage. It is good to get quotes from a number of them and compare their offers. It is always worthwhile to give preference to admitted carriers for getting your car insurance. They will provide reliable and guaranteed insurance, which will not contain hidden costs.