What Happens If You Drive Without Insurance in California?
Driving without insurance in California has consequences. Without minimum liability car insurance that meets California requirements, you can face serious repercussions if you cause an accident or a police officer catches you. Make sure you understand the penalties for getting caught without insurance—and the insurance requirements you must meet to comply with the law.
Understanding California’s Insurance Laws
In California, drivers must carry auto insurance that provides financial protection for other people in the event they cause an accident. California vehicle minimum insurance includes:
- $30,000 in coverage for injuries to a single person
- $60,000 in coverage if more than one person suffers injury in an accident
- $15,000 in coverage for property damage in one accident
These numbers represent the bare minimum insurance coverage. Many drivers choose to increase these limits and carry additional insurance protection, including full coverage insurance that will cover the damages to a driver’s vehicle if they cause an accident.
The Consequences of Driving Without Insurance in California
Failure to meet California’s minimum insurance requirements the first time can mean significant fines and penalties. Subsequent offenses, however, can lead to even more substantial consequences.
What Are the Legal Penalties and Fines?
For the first offense of driving without insurance, drivers can face a fine between $100 and $200, with additional penalty assessments that can bring the total as high as $400. For subsequent offenses within three years, drivers can face fines that range between $200 and $500.
In addition, drivers can face:
- Suspension of vehicle registration
- Towing and storage fees
- Suspension of driving privileges
Specific penalty assessments may depend on individual circumstances, including how long you have gone without insurance.
Impact on Driving Record
Each offense for driving without insurance in California adds one point to your license. If you accumulate enough points within a set period of time, you can end up losing your license. In addition, your insurance costs may increase.
Vehicle Impoundment Possibilities
In many cases, officers may not allow you to leave the scene of a traffic stop if you do not have insurance. That means your vehicle can end up towed and impounded. You may have to pay to have the vehicle registration reinstated and your insurance brought up to date before you can retrieve your vehicle, which may mean significant storage costs.
What Happens If You’re in an Accident Without Insurance?
If you end up in an accident without insurance, both the legal and financial penalties can be high.
When you get into an accident without sufficient auto insurance, you may face more than the usual fines and penalties associated with a lack of insurance; you could get a license suspension. You will often be asked to provide proof of car insurance after an accident, even if you did not cause the accident.
Individuals who do not carry enough liability insurance may also bear personal liability for the damage caused in an accident. That does not just mean that you have to pay for your own vehicle’s damage. You may also have to pay for the other party’s vehicle damage, medical costs, and even wage losses. Those costs can cause immense financial strain.
If you have financial assets, they can potentially be seized to satisfy a court judgement.
Options for Uninsured Drivers in California
If you are driving without insurance in California, first and foremost, stop driving. You need to secure insurance before you get behind the wheel. Fortunately, much of California has robust public transportation options, with a bus line in almost every county and rail and ferry services in many areas.
Next, look into your options for insurance coverage. You want to find the cheapest car insurance possible in California, right? Your best bet is to check with your neighborhood independent insurance agent – they can find you many different options to choose from since they have a relationship with a wide variety of carriers.
Tips for Purchasing Insurance
You recognize the importance of purchasing and carrying auto insurance. Now what?
1. Consider Your Coverage Needs
Before you start looking for a policy, have a good idea of how much coverage you need. If you drive a high-value vehicle or do not have the means to replace your vehicle after an accident, minimum liability coverage may not be enough. You may need collision or comprehensive insurance to have the protection you really need.
Don’t forget about the importance of uninsured motorist coverage. There is no guarantee that other drivers carry adequate insurance.
2. Shop Around
Look at multiple insurance companies before you settle on one, especially if you are high-risk or have other factors that may increase your insurance rates. Different providers may offer different levels of coverage. Let your friendly neighborhood agent do the research for you.
3. Ask About Discounts
Many insurance providers offer discounts that can significantly decrease your car insurance costs. Ask about student discounts, multi-car discounts, or safe driving options to see what your provider can offer. Bundling different kinds of insurance under one carrier can get you up to 30% off, while the same is true for those with a good driving record.
4. Review Your Policy Regularly
Set aside time each year to go over your auto insurance policy and make sure it still fits your needs. Your income may change, the value of your car may change, or you may decide that you need more coverage due to marriage or kids. For example, if you start working from home, you may qualify for a low mileage discount.
Avoid Fines—Get Affordable Car Insurance Today!
Driving without car insurance is a risky decision—both for you and for other people on the road. California mandates that all drivers carry insurance to cover damages they cause others in an accident. Not having coverage puts your finances and your driving freedom at risk.
Do you need car insurance in California? Are you looking for affordable options that can protect you in the event of an accident? Check out Cost-U-Less Insurance for fast, affordable coverage. Get a quote online or call (800) 390-4071 to connect with a representative who can help you find the ideal policy for you. You can also visit a local office for in-person assistance.
