The possibilities are endless in sunny California. From white sandy beaches to top-notch ski resorts and lush forests, you're golden when it comes to outdoor adventure. When you're taking in the sweet sunshine while driving with the top down, it's a comfort knowing you're California auto insurance rates are the best and most-affordable available.

Auto Deals

The State of California requires residents to carry liability insurance to cover $15,000 for death or injury of any one person per accident, $30,000 for death or injury of more than one person per accident, and $5,000 for property damage. These are the maximum limits your California auto insurance provider will pay out if you are involved in a car accident. If you are without this minimum coverage you are subject to fines or license suspension. What's worse is, if you are without coverage and you are responsible for a car accident, hefty out-of-pocket costs will be incurred. To ensure you're getting the best, most-affordable coverage it's important to shop around. By using a free service like LocalInsurance.com you will be matched to several agents in your area.

Theft Insurance

Six of the Top 10 Hot Spots for motor vehicle thefts in 2009 were in California, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau. You are more than likely required to have comprehensive coverage on your California auto insurance policy if you have a car loan. But if you are without this supplemental coverage and your car is stolen, you will be financially responsible for purchasing a new vehicle. Needless to say, it's important to compare the cost of comprehensive coverage to the cost of replacing your vehicle. Say your car is 15 years old with high mileage. In this case, comprehensive coverage may not be in your best interest as your California auto insurance rates may outweigh the value of your vehicle and it will only pay out the value of your vehicle if it is stolen.

Preventative Measures

The Insurance Information Institute recommends using the "layered approach" to protect your vehicle.

  • First - use common sense like removing your keys from the ignition, locking your doors and parking in well-lit areas to shield your car from thieves.
  • Second - install visible or audible devices. Things like steering column collars, theft deterrent decals, window etching, audible alarms and wheel locks are devices that will thwart thieves.
  • Third - install an immobilizing device. Thieves will not be able to drive your vehicle if you install things like smart keys or kill switches.
  • Fourth - if you have a tracking device, your vehicle will be located by police or a monitoring station if it is stolen.

Most insurance companies offer discounts to those who protect their vehicle with anti-theft devices. Additionally, your California auto insurance rates can be minimized if you take advantage of the discounts you are eligible for. Maintaining a good credit record, taking defensive driving courses, and combining auto and homeowners policies with the same company could allot you discounts on your insurance premium. You can do the research on your own or, better yet, get several quotes for California auto insurance rates for free by filling out a quick and easy form on LocalInsurance.com.

To find more information on the auto insurance requirements in California, visit these useful links: