Most drivers purchase auto insurance to cover their financial liability, but the DMV offers a few alternatives: If you cannot afford liability insurance, you may be eligible for the California Low-Cost Automobile Insurance Program.
Low-Cost Auto Insurance Program in California Insurance experts often recommend carrying 10 times this amount of coverage. However, this is merely the minimum coverage level required by the state. The minimum level of coverage in California is: Minimum Liability Insurance Requirements in Californiaĭrivers must have minimum liability insurance, which covers costs related to injuries or damage you might cause in a car accident. You can carry this on paper or a mobile device, and you must present it when requested by law enforcement or when renewing vehicle registration. Your insurance company should provide you with an insurance card containing information about your policy and the car(s) covered. Proof of Insurance in CaliforniaĪll California drivers must carry evidence of financial responsibility in their vehicles at all times or proof of an alternative (see below). If you drive your car infrequently, you may qualify for a low-mileage discount or pay-as-you-drive insurance. Even your 1967 Camaro that sits in the garage will need insurance if you ever want to take it for a spin. Although you'll likely pay higher rates for years to come, striving for an improved driving record and shopping around for car insurance could help you lower your rates over time.Ĭar Insurance in California: What You Need to KnowĪny car driven or parked on California roadways must be insured, according to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The costs of a DUI can amount to roughly $40,000 in increased auto insurance rates over a period of 13 years. Improving your driving record in the years to come will keep you safe and lower your insurance costs.Ĭar insurance companies evaluate car insurance costs based partly on your driving record. Shopping around and comparing car insurance quotes could help you find lower rates after getting a DUI. Costs associated with a DUI include legal fees, court fees, alcohol education programs and increased auto insurance premiums.
In the same study, 1.5% of respondents in California reported driving after drinking too much within the previous 30 days.ĭriving under the influence can impact your finances for years to come.
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( CDC), there were 9,288 car crash deaths involving a drunk driver in California from 2009–2018. Drivers in California with a DUI might need to file an SR-22. Having a DUI on your record can increase your insurance rates because driving under the influence of alcohol can endanger yourself and others on the road.